Toby Perkins MP for Chesterfield recently joined charity Parkinson’s UK to mark 200 years since Parkinson’s was first recognised as a condition.

At the recent Parkinson’s UK parliamentary reception Toby talked to staff and volunteers about the strides that have been made in understanding the condition since James Parkinson’s Essay on the Shaking Palsy in 1817, but also the work that is still to be done as there is no cure for Parkinson’s and current medication can’t stop the condition from progressing.

Parkinson’s UK highlighted the issues faced by people with Parkinson’s, including mental health problems, a common but often overlooked symptom of the neurological condition.

Parkinson’s affects one in 500 people in Chesterfield, and can cause a myriad of symptoms including insomnia, depression, and hallucinations, robbing people of their independence. But through more research, improved services, and empowering people with Parkinson’s to take control, their lives can be turned around.

Toby Perkins MP said after attending the event: “It is not well known that mental health symptoms are common with Parkinson’s. I want to help ensure that people in Chesterfield and Staveley get the support they need, when they need it. I look forward to seeing the report into this by the Parliamentary Group on Parkinson’s so that I can work locally and nationally to improve mental health services for everyone affected by the condition.”

For advice, information and support, visit www.parkinsons.org.uk or call their free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.