Fiona Lindop receives MBE for services to physiotherapy

Fiona has been working at the Florence Nightingale Community Hospital in Derbyshire as a specialist Parkinson’s physiotherapist for over 30 years. The service grew around her and went on to become one of only two Centres of Excellence for Parkinson's care in the UK, winning many awards along the way. 

She’s a huge advocate of physical activity for people with Parkinson’s and an active member of Parkinson’s Excellence Network’s Exercise Hub.

Fiona Lindop MBE, said:  

“Receiving the letter confirming the award was unbelievable. It’s such an unexpected honour and to know that someone, somewhere took the time and effort to nominate me, is very special.

“I always say that physiotherapy is my calling, but Parkinson’s chose me. The biggest reward is equipping people with the practical solutions that will allow them to manage their condition and live better with Parkinson’s. That’s why I do it. 

"I've learnt so much from the colleagues I've worked with and the patients I've seen over the years. I couldn't have done it without them, which is why through the work I do with the Parkinson's Excellence Network, I act as an ambassador for therapists. Making sure that everyone has access to the information, skills and knowledge to provide the level of care that people with Parkinson's deserve."

Fiona’s impact and expertise reaches beyond the midlands. In 2017, she was the physiotherapy representative on NICE’s (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) Parkinson’s Guidelines and the NICE Quality Standards for Parkinson’s. 

The following year, she became the first Clinical Lead for Therapy on the Parkinson’s Excellence Network’s Clinical Leadership Team, reflecting the importance of multidisciplinary care for people with Parkinson’s.

Dr Rowan Wathes, Associate Director of Policy and Health Strategy, added:

“Fiona is among the top specialist Parkinson’s physiotherapists in the UK and we’re delighted to see her receive this richly deserved recognition. She has inspired and trained a generation of physiotherapists to specialise in the condition and deliver high quality services. 

“Fiona has been instrumental in driving our national Integrated Multidisciplinary Care programme and our induction programme for Parkinson’s specialist therapists. She is a member of our UK Parkinson’s Audit steering group and a key member of our Exercise Hub. Her compassionate approach and ability to make change happen for the benefit of the Parkinson’s community all across the UK is truly humbling.”

Celebrating other members of the Parkinson's community

John Minhinick BEM, chair of the Fife Branch, was also recognised in the New Year Honours List. John received a British Empire Medal in recognition of his outstanding service to the Parkinson's community in Fife and beyond.

Chief Executive of Parkinson’s UK, Caroline Rassell said:

“Parkinson’s UK couldn’t function without our network of experts and volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to making life with Parkinson’s better. It’s wonderful to see the efforts of John and Fiona being recognised in the New Year Honours list. We are so grateful for all of the work and dedication that they have shown to the Parkinson’s community over the years. ”