This site is here to help more pickleball clubs create welcoming, adaptable groups for people living with Parkinson's. It is based primarily on what we have learned at Hingham Pickleball Club in Norfolk, UK.
Built from experience in Hingham
At Hingham, we started with a simple aim: to offer enjoyable, sociable pickleball sessions that people with Parkinson's could take part in with confidence. The group developed through practical experience—listening to players, learning from volunteers and adapting sessions as we went.
That experience shapes the guidance on this site, from structuring a first session and choosing equipment to modifying play and managing risk. It is not a fixed formula. Parkinson's affects everyone differently, so clubs should listen to their players and adjust activities to suit the people in front of them.
Learning from groups around the country
Hingham's experience is only one part of the story. We have also learned from Pickleball for Parkinson's groups elsewhere in the UK, sharing ideas about what works and adapting them for our own players, venue and volunteers.
This site brings that shared learning together as a practical starting point. We hope it helps other clubs begin with greater confidence, while continuing to test, improve and share their own approaches.
Why we are sharing what we learned
Pickleball is social, enjoyable and flexible. With thoughtful preparation, sessions can be adapted to accommodate different levels of mobility, balance, confidence and playing experience.
Our aim is to lower the barrier for clubs that would like to help but are unsure where to begin. The guides cover the practical questions we faced ourselves: how to involve players and volunteers, plan a session, choose equipment, adapt the rules and create an environment where people feel welcome.
Supported by Sport England and our community
Initial funding from Sport England, supported by The National Lottery, helped the Hingham group get started. It enabled us to meet early costs and put the equipment and support in place for the first sessions.
Since then, individuals and businesses in the local community have also contributed funding and practical support. Their generosity has helped the group continue and develop. We are grateful to everyone who has given time, money, equipment or encouragement.
Featured by the BBC
The Hingham group was featured by BBC News, sharing players' experiences and the hope that similar groups could be established in more communities.
Read “Pickleball means my wheelchair stays in the shed” on BBC News
A starting point for your club
Every club, venue and group of players will be different. Treat these resources as a starting point: talk to potential players, build a supportive volunteer team, make sensible adaptations and keep learning together.
Explore the practical guides or see the steps for setting up a group.