Sutton Councillors join the Mayor of Sutton in Pledging to Raise Parkinson's Awareness

Sutton Councillors have unanimously agreed a series of measures to support residents living with Parkinson’s disease and to increase public awareness of the condition. Across the South West London region, thousands of people are living with this disease. The motion, passed at a full council meeting on 14 July, commits the Council to a series of initiatives in partnership with the charity Parkinson's UK.

This comes after the Mayor of Sutton, Councillor Louise Phelan, confirmed Sutton, Kingston and Epsom branch of Parkinson's UK, will be one of her Mayoral charities.  
Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, with around 166,000 people currently living with the disease. Around 1 in 37 people in the UK will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s in their lifetime, making it one of the most significant neurological health challenges facing our population.

Parkinson’s UK is the leading charity supporting those affected and they work tirelessly to provide advocacy, research investment, and practical support for those affected by Parkinson’s in Sutton and across the UK.

The motion will see the Council formally mark World Parkinson's Day on April 11 and host a dedicated Parkinson's Awareness Day event. This event will feature keynote speakers, representatives from Parkinson's UK, and informational stands to provide residents with comprehensive resources and support. 

Mayor of Sutton, Councillor Louise Phelan, said: “Parkinson’s UK is a charity that is very close to my heart and I’m delighted Councillors have joined me in supporting this work locally.  I’ve been privileged to meet the many local volunteers, carers, and health professionals who make a significant difference in the lives of residents living with Parkinson’s and this increased awareness will mean a great deal to them. 

Leader of the London Borough of Sutton, Councillor Barry Lewis, said: "I was happy to support this important motion that will help so many in our community. Parkinson's is a condition that affects a significant number of our residents, and it is our duty to ensure individuals and families  have the support and resources they need. By partnering with Parkinson's UK and hosting an awareness day, we can help to demystify this condition and encourage a more inclusive and understanding community for all. 

Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Tom Drummond, added: "This cross-party motion demonstrates Sutton’s united front in tackling the challenges faced by those with Parkinson's. Raising awareness is crucial, not only for those who have been diagnosed but for the wider public. This initiative will provide a valuable platform for education, support, and community awareness. I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this motion across the borough."

Arthur Hookway, Chairman of the Sutton, Kingston and Epsom branch of Parkinson's UK, commented: "We are absolutely delighted that Sutton Council has passed this motion and that the Mayor of Sutton will be supporting us as one of her chosen mayoral charities. For the 1 in 37 people who will be diagnosed with Parkinson's in their lifetime, local support and understanding are incredibly important. This partnership will provide a powerful platform to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and ensure that people with Parkinson's in Sutton feel seen and supported. We look forward to working closely with the council to make the upcoming awareness day a great success and to build a community that is truly Parkinson's-friendly."