Local church congregation in Newbold, Chesterfield have raised over £2600 in funds for Dancing for Health CIC to enable their partner dance class to continue for vulnerable people.
St Andrew’s United Reformed Church in Newbold, Chesterfield have organised fundraising and donations through the church congregation and local community to ensure this valuable class can continue its good work.
Dancing for Health CIC are a not for profit community interest company. They create and deliver specialised dance therapy programmes for vulnerable people. They hold a weekly Partner Dancing session at St Andrews church hall for those who find physical activity hard to access within their community and for those whose health conditions prevent them from joining a public dance class. The dance classes are specifically adapted and designed with these challenges in mind, they are particularly suitable for older people, those with reduced fitness levels, those with long term health conditions, such as cancer, Parkinson’s or Stroke, or others that feel isolated or lonely. It is a fun, friendly and social group. The modified dancing sessions improve physical and emotional wellness.
The group was originally set up with funding from Parkinson’s UK to support people affected by Parkinson disease. Although the class size was small the sessions made a huge impact on the participants involved. When that funding came to an end the class was in danger of closing. The church came to the rescue. The funding raised through the church will now enable the classes to continue for several more months while the class can build in size and hopefully become sustainable and self funded.
Cathy, a participant, says, “Having Parkinson’s can make my body freeze and I feel like I have concrete boots on, but since coming to Dancing for Health Classes I haven’t froze. My GP has said he has noticed a vast difference and improvement and my joints aren’t as stiff.”
All participants have been amazed at how dance tailored to suit their conditions has restored mobility and renewed their self-confidence. Cheryl and John say “The classes have put some fun back into our lives, The dance instructors are very professional, patient and understanding of Parkinson’s sufferers needs.”
Tracey Barnes, Managing Director and instructor for Dancing for Health CIC says “it is particularly helpful for Parkinson’s sufferers. Volunteers are on hand to support participants without their own partners”.
Dancing for Health Classes are held every Thursday at 1.00pm Refreshments are served after the class, giving participants a chance to rest and chat. There is a small charge of £4. Contact Tracey Barnes on 07721 046757 for more information or come along on any Thursday afternoon. Everyone is welcome. Bring a friend or come on your own.
