Improving access to mental health services for people with Parkinson's

What do we mean by moderate to severe mental ill-health?

Mental illness is common in people with Parkinson's. In the context of this project, moderate to severe mental ill-health means any mental health condition that needs prompt input from a specialist mental health professional. This includes conditions that significantly impact quality of life, and/or causes significant distress. It also includes mental health symptoms that pose a significant risk, make the management of Parkinson’s more difficult and make motor symptoms and/or cognitive status worse. 

Why is this important?

People with Parkinson’s experiencing moderate to severe mental ill-health have difficulties getting the support they need. These challenges include unequal access to services across the country, shortages of key health professionals, and concerns about the quality of care.

Despite various government and NHS England initiatives to improve mental health, progress in improving mental health services for people with Parkinson's has been minimal. With the new 10 Year Health Plan and Long Term Workforce Plan refresh for the NHS in England, there’s an opportunity to improve mental health care for people with Parkinson’s. Up-to-date insights from people with Parkinson's, carers, and health professionals are essential to drive meaningful change.

What is planned?

Over the next 12 months, the project will explore how to improve access to specialist mental health services for people with Parkinson’s. We want to speak to a wide range of people with Parkinson's and healthcare professionals to understand their experiences and get their views on solutions to enhance how care is provided. Based on our findings, we’ll make recommendations to the government and the NHS, and work with them to make the necessary changes.

How can you help?

The experiences and views of people with Parkinson's, carers, and healthcare professionals will be essential to the project. If you live with Parkinson’s and have experienced significant mental health challenges that need prompt specialist support, or care for someone who has, we’d love to hear from you.

Discussion groups will be taking place on:

• 31st July 2025 at Charles Musgrove Village Hall near Wincanton
• 12th August 2025 at Parkinson’s UK office in London
• 14th August 2025 in Woodhall Spa

Get in touch if you’re interested in sharing your story or taking part in a discussion group. Your voice is crucial for shaping the future of mental health support for people with Parkinson's.