The Randal Foundation are proud to support Parkinson’s UK, with the funding of a new Parkinson’s specialist nurse for the Highlands. This vital role is funded by the foundation for an initial two-year period, after which it will transition to sustainable funding through the NHS. For people living with Parkinson’s, access to a specialist nurse is often described as the single most important part of their care. These professionals possess an in-depth understanding of the condition and its complex symptoms, offering expert guidance on managing medication, providing emotional support, and helping to ease anxieties. They’re a trusted and consistent presence for patients navigating the ever changing challenges of Parkinson’s.
Without the support of a Parkinson’s nurse, individuals often struggle with self management and are less likely to access support from Allied Health Professionals such as physiotherapists or occupational therapists. This can lead to a loss of independence, increased reliance on care, and emergency hospital admissions. The impact of a Parkinson’s nurse is truly life changing.
In the Highlands, the need for this role is urgent. The region is home to over 560 Parkinson’s patients – a number that has risen by 10% since 2020 – and covers a vast area that makes up over 33% of the land mass of Scotland, with many residents living in remote, rural locations. The current nurse service is overstretched, limiting its ability to provide inpatient reviews, collaborate with Allied Health Professionals and participate in research. This nurse will ease the burden, ensuring that patients receive the tailored, expert care they deserve.
The NICE guidelines recommend a caseload of 250-300 patients per Parkinson’s nurse, and this post will bring the Highlands closer to that standard. Together, we’re building a brighter future for the Parkinson’s community- one where no one faces Parkinson’s alone.
