EFFORTS are being made to raise awareness of a common symptom associated with Parkinson’s.

Bosses at the Parkinson’s UK charity want to encourage a better understanding of ‘freezing,’ which suddenly renders people who have the condition unable to move.

Around 80 per cent of people with Parkinson’s will experience freezing, which usually happens when something interrupts or gets in the way of an everyday movement.

And it can get worse if the person is feeling anxious or stressed.

Annie Macleod, of Parkinson’s UK, said: “Freezing is unpredictable – it can suddenly occur at any time in any place and some people avoid everyday activities like shopping, using public transport or meeting friends because they fear they will freeze.

“Parkinson’s UK is supporting research to uncover the causes of freezing but I’d urge people to be aware of the symptom and understand that someone rendered immobile may be freezing and need help to get moving again.”

“A caring intervention could make a huge difference to someone in distress.”

To find out more, visit parkinsons.org.uk.