The idea
In January we partnered with Dance Syndrome to deliver weekly inclusive dance sessions for children and adults in Lancaster. that are co-produced and co-delivered by a professional dance artist and a dance leader with a disability. They explore taught dance, travel, connection exercises, and creative tasks which allow each participant’s voice to be heard and all ideas to be shared.
At the heart of DanceSyndrome ethos is the belief that there is no right or wrong way to move and there is beauty and significance in everyone’s movement. This provides opportunities for people with learning disabilities to not only be included, but to become more visible citizens, have their voices heard on important issues, follow their dreams and to succeed in their ambitions.
Lancaster CVS and local NHS were so excited about our innovative approach they awarded us £2,000 for a 6 week trial. Our crowdfunding will build up our network of dance leaders and make this a regular event
What we'll deliver
- Every £250 that we raise will fund a 2 hour dance session (dance artist, dance leader, session prep and room fees)
Why it's a great idea
Dance Syndrome consulted 300 people with learning disabilities and their families in Greater Manchester and Lancashire, and 100% identified low confidence, low aspirations, and limited life skills as key barriers to participating in social groups and to employment, training and volunteering. 50% had been unable to find suitable physical activity before hearing about Dance Syndrome; 40% had very limited movement and mobility; and 36% said there are no other local inclusive physical activities. They feared being ridiculed in ‘mainstream’ activities and were often unable to access these.
Our Everybody dance sessions will address these barriers and inequalities in a safe, inclusive environment which focuses on the individual. Now we want to create opportunities for people living in North Lancashire to regularly access these inclusive dance sessions.
Steps to get it done
- marketing & engagement through social media (winter/spring 2023)
- On boarding participants to Everybody Dance & on-going engagement (spring 2023)
- training of 3 dance artists (summer/autumn 2023)
