Thank you for contacting me about Parkinson’s disease.
120,000 people are living with Parkinson’s Disease and I strongly agree that we must ensure they are able to access the necessary treatment, care and services to live a fulfilled and independent life.
I can fully appreciate the impact of delays in treatment and care on people living with Parkinson’s disease. The 2022 UK Parkinson’s Audit highlighted several areas where people with Parkinson’s UK are facing challenges in accessing the services and treatment they need.
Research into Parkinson’s disease is vital to improving understanding more about the condition and discovering new treatments that can improve quality of life. I applaud the work of Parkinson’s UK in investing over £100 million in research to support new discoveries, develop new treatments and fund clinical trials.
I also welcome that the Government is backing the plan developed by the NHS to train and retain more staff to deliver patient care over the next 15 years. The plan includes a commitment to significantly increase the number of domestic medical school, GP and adult nurse training places by 2031.
World Parkinson's Day provides an important opportunity to highlight issues affecting people living with Parkinson's Disease. I am grateful to Parkinson's UK for its tireless advocacy and support for those affected and their families on the Island.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.