Parkinson's Awareness

This April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. We’re sharing key information on how to spot the symptoms, the impact on the fire and rescue services community, and where you can find support.

Steve's story

What is Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s is a condition that affects the brain and gets more challenging over time. It happens when the brain doesn’t produce enough dopamine, a chemical that helps us move and feel well. It can affect people of any age.

  • Rising numbers: More people are being diagnosed now than ever before.
  • Varied symptoms: It affects everyone differently, causing physical issues like tremors and balance problems, as well as mental health changes.
  • Complex causes: It is usually caused by a mix of genetics and the environment around us.
  • Treatment and support: There is currently no cure, but research is ongoing to help manage symptoms and improve lives.

Recognising the signs of Parkinson’s

Early symptoms often include:

  • Tremors
  • Muscle stiffness and rigidity
  • Slowness of movement
Other signs to be aware of
    • Falls and dizziness
    • Freezing of gait
    • Pain
    • Gastrointestinal symptoms
    • Rigidity
    • Bladder & bowel changes
    • Visual disturbances
    • Lack of facial expressions
    • Low blood pressure
    • Sleep problems
    • Speech challenges
    • Anxiety and depression
    • Hallucinations & delusional behaviour
    • Cognitive decline

Please be aware that there are potentially many symptoms linked to Parkinson’s – the above are examples.
See a GP if you’re concerned that you may have symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s UK and the NHS provide more details about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Parkinson’s in the fire and rescue services

166,000 people live with Parkinson’s in the UK today, predicted to increase rapidly by 2030.

Based on UK statistics and 2024 published UK fire and rescue service workforce statistics of 44,000 employed..

  • There is a 2.7% lifetime risk of Parkinson’s diagnosis or about 1 in 37
  • This equates to 1,189 fire and rescue service personnel in the UK
  • This challenge is expected to grow, as general population predictions indicate a further 4.2% increase in diagnoses by 2030.

Physical fitness and good mental wellbeing play an important role in helping individuals and their families to manage the condition.

Research insights from Cure Parkinson’s (2025)

“Accepting I had Parkinson’s took years, but it’s what finally helped me move forward”

Steve Norman, former Deputy Assistant Commissioner at LFB, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 10 years ago. He’s now sharing his story to raise awareness of the disease – and the difference understanding and support can make.

Steve's Story

Young Onset Parkinson’s (YOPD)

Young Onset Parkinson’s (YOPD) refers to diagnoses before age 50. YOPD can also be referred to as early-onset Parkinson’s disease (EOPD).

  • YOPD accounts for 5–10% of all cases (approx. 14,500 people in the UK)
  • Symptoms for those diagnosed at an early age can be varied and may include:
    • Frozen shoulder
    • Toe clawing
    • Depression
    • Insomnia

Spotlight YOPD is a charity that addresses the unique challenges of YOPD by providing:

  • Support for newly diagnosed individuals and their families
  • Empowerment and wellbeing resources
  • Community connections and research opportunities
  • Social media groups and educational webinars

Spotlight YOPD

If you’re a member of the UK’s fire services community impacted by Parkinson’s Disease and need help, please contact us to find out what tailored support we can provide.

Get support