New City College recently hosted special activity days designed to bring together people living with Parkinson's.
The charity events took place at Havering Sixth Form campus and New City College’s Redbridge campus, organised in partnership with Parkinson’s UK, and welcomed members from the charity’s Havering and District and Redbridge branches.
Activities ranged from yoga and Tai Chi to non-contact boxing, walking football, table tennis, speech therapy, arts and crafts, and singing sessions.
Attendees also enjoyed manicures and head, neck, and shoulder massages.
Jagdeep Aujla, who helped lead the Redbridge event, said: "I have been inundated with positive feedback from our members.
"The college staff and students were fantastic. I am already looking forward to next year."
Guest speakers included Carl Beech, the inventor of the Beechband wrist device, NHS representative Sarah Wynard, who spoke about the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment for Parkinson’s, and Caroline Rassell, CEO of Parkinson’s UK.
At the Redbridge campus, participants also enjoyed sessions run by West Ham United FC staff and a lively Bhangra dance to round off the day.
Ms Rassell said: "Being active is great for your physical and mental health and allows you to make new and different connections.
"That’s why this activity day is so important.
"Well done to New City College on another fantastic event – the student volunteers are a credit to you, it has been a fantastic day."
Maria Thompson, from the Havering Parkinson’s group, echoed the praise for the students.
She said: "These young people have been a bundle of energy throughout the day.
"If they are the future, then the future is very bright."
The events were organised by New City College’s marketing team and supported by staff and student volunteers.
Jamie Webb, marketing manager at the college, said: "These two days were brilliant examples of how New City College can support and engage with our local community."
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