DanceSyndrome receives £340,000 lottery grant to expand provision

DanceSyndrome, a community dance project for people with learning disabilities who may struggle to access dance in traditional settings, has received over £340,000 of National Lottery funding to expand its provision.

The project was founded by Jen Blackwell, who has Down’s syndrome, and her parents in 2009 after she found it challenging to find opportunities in community dance that were accessible to people with learning disabilities.

Currently, the project runs four public in-person Everybody Dance community sessions and five online sessions every week, alongside a wide range of performance and professional development opportunities.

The money will be used to expand their provision by 2030, including creating pathways for children with learning disabilities to take part in accessible dance sessions at all ages.

DanceSyndrome and the co-production model

Jen wanted to co-lead community dance sessions without her disability being a barrier, so DanceSyndrome developed a co-production model where Dance Leaders with Learning Disabilities work in equal partnership with professional Dance Artists to create dance activities that are accessible to everyone.

She says that this co-production approach is fundamental to DanceSyndrome’s success because it encourages people with and without disabilities to think differently about what people can achieve when given the proper support.

Adults with learning disabilities attending these community sessions reported that DanceSyndrome has helped them increase their confidence, learn new skills for independent living, volunteering and work, and develop a sense of belonging.

Over the last two years, efforts have begun to expand this impact by working with both young people and adults. A DS Youth Collective was formed in 2023, and the success of this group highlighted the need for a wider programme of inclusive activities for children and young people in the North West, and beyond.

Accessible dance opportunities for people of all ages

Julie Nicholson, DanceSyndrome Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way. Now, thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to create accessible opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the amazing health and wellbeing benefits of dance and movement.

“This is so important because we regularly hear from families whose children absolutely love to dance and feel huge benefits from it, but find it difficult to access mainstream activities. Everyone in society benefits when people of all abilities are supported and included.

“We want to put that into practice from a very young age, so that families can feel connected with their communities and access the life-changing opportunities that dance can bring.”

Alison Bloomer

Alison Bloomer is Editor of Learning Disability Today.

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