Dance South West

On Monday 15th November, Dance South West and the Department of Health South West presented the Health and Well-Being through Dance Seminar, hosted by Swindon Dance.

The seminar was designed to bring a range of different sectors together interested in the health and well-being of people. People attended from across the region, from Swindon, Dorset, Bath, Somerset, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Devon, Cornwall and from outside of the region, including the West Midlands and Oxfordshire. Also in attendance were delegates from Age UK, Parkinsons UK and Arts Council England. This seminar attracted people mainly from the Health and Dance Sector, but also Physical Activity colleagues and members from the Voluntary and Community Sector were also in attendance.

The seminar provided delegates with first hand examples of practical dance projects from across the South West and the UK that have successfully tackled health issues. Guest speakers included Ken Bartlett, Miranda Tufnell, Dr.Mal Rigler and Dr.Kitrina Douglas, all of whom inspired the delegates with their enthusiasm, knowledge and agreement that dance has the capabilities of tackling the most profound of illnesses, as well has having the power to influence behaviour change and reduce health inequalities.

The afternoon encouraged partnership development opportunities as they devised programmes of dance activity for a range of target groups relevant to their own work. Ideas stimulated discussions and exciting new dance activity plans were created, which will be circulated to everyone in attendance on the day.

A sense of renewed enthusiasm, new relationships and an increase in awareness of the power of dance left people inspired and motivated to create new dance opportunities in their localities. “I have come away inspired to set up a pilot for dad’s and their kids.”