PEOPLE living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones are being invited to take part in a unique creative arts project to help children understand what it’s like to live with the condition.
The project, led by Tameside-based arts company Made by Mortals, will see locals affected by Parkinson’s team up with artists, musicians, and storytellers to create a radio-play style podcast episode for children.
The free weekly workshops begin on Thursday, November 27, from 10.15am to midday at Guide Bridge Theatre in Audenshaw.
Participants will work together to develop an episode of Armchair Adventures – a hit podcast for children aged six to 10 – exploring Parkinson’s in a way that’s creative, compassionate, and easy for young people to understand.
A collaboration between Made by Mortals and the charity Parkinson’s UK, the project’s aim is to give people living with Parkinson’s a platform to share their stories while raising awareness among the next generation.
Helen Sturman, Area Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “We know it can sometimes be difficult to explain Parkinson’s – especially to younger people – so I’m delighted to be working with Made by Mortals on this project to help create a recording that will share people’s experiences of Parkinson’s in a fun and accessible way.
“I’d encourage anyone living locally affected by Parkinson’s who is interested in taking part in the workshops to get in touch with Tess. No artistic experience is needed – just bring your voice, ideas and enthusiasm!”
Made by Mortals, based in Tameside, is known for using creativity and lived experience to tell powerful community stories through music, theatre and podcasting.
Tess Keeble, Relationship Manager at Made by Mortals, said: “The Hearts & Minds workshops are a great opportunity to share your ideas, get creative, and meet new people.
“It’s thanks to people’s willingness to share their lived experiences and imaginations that we can create recordings, stories, and characters to highlight important health and social care issues. I’d love for you to join us!”
Anyone affected by Parkinson’s – including family, friends and carers – is welcome to join the sessions. To take part or find out more, contact Tess via tess@madebymortals.org or 07450 388 632.
Parkinson’s is a complex brain condition that worsens over time, with more than 40 symptoms ranging from tremor and pain to anxiety.
Someone in the UK is diagnosed with Parkinson’s every 20 minutes, and the number of people living with the condition worldwide is expected to double to 25 million by 2050.