Celtic FC Foundation is delighted to be teaming up with Parkinson’s UK and Glasgow Life to help deliver free weekly walking football sessions in Glasgow.

And Celtic midfielder, Matt O'Riley, was at the Toryglen Regional Football Centre today to help launch this new project.

Beginning at Glasgow Life’s Toryglen Regional Football Centre, the project will be free for people with Parkinson’s and we hope the sessions will appeal to a greater number of people living with Parkinson’s, particularly those not currently engaged in physical activity.

Celtic FC Foundation coaches will assist Glasgow Life, the charity that delivers culture and sport in Glasgow with deliverying the programme and will also undertake Parkinson’s awareness training.

The programme will also be supported by a small team of Glasgow Life walking football helpers who will enhance the experience for individuals who need extra support.

Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, with some 145,000 people living with the condition in the UK. More than 1,000 people live with Parkinson’s in the Glasgow city area, with 130 people newly diagnosed each year.

Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support this initiative. We’re very excited to work with the teams at Glasgow Life and Parkinson’s UK and I am sure the walking football programme will improve the lives of many people who live with Parkinson’s in the next few years.”

James Jopling, Scotland Director, Parkinson's UK said: “Walking football can help with some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s and there is a significant level of interest in the activity within the Parkinson’s community across the UK.

“We are delighted to be able to expand opportunities to access walking football sessions in Glasgow through this partnership with Glasgow Life and Celtic FC Foundation. We know that we are currently only scratching the surface in terms of the numbers attending sessions and look forward to growing the offering of a tried and tested programme suitable for people with Parkinson’s.

“By providing walking football free to people with Parkinson’s, we hope to see many more take part in a fun and enjoyable activity that also offers the chance to be part of a real community of support.”

Alan Milner, Head of Sport at Glasgow Life, said: “Glasgow Life is committed to helping everyone experience the life-changing benefits of sport. This partnership is a game-changer and will make our Walking Football programme even more accessible for people with Parkinson’s.

“For many, this is more than just a game. It’s an opportunity to socialise, make new friends and be part of a team. It’s also a chance for people to get active and improve their mental and physical wellbeing.”

For more information on this project, please contact cfcfoundation@celticfc.co.uk

Foundation partnership will deliver free football walking sessions