Rushcliffe Borough Council has taken a significant step to tackle loneliness and improve community wellbeing by awarding a grant of over £20,000 to fund free, inclusive dance and movement sessions for residents.
A Community Initiative for Health and Connection
This vital funding, secured through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), is being delivered by IMPACD CIC. The project offers professionally led sessions specifically designed to support older adults, people living with dementia, their carers, and any individual experiencing loneliness, low mood, or limited mobility.
The classes, known as Joyful Dance, are led by friendly facilitators and involve gentle dancing to uplifting music in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. They utilise movement-based techniques, including imagery, sensory prompts, and musical memory, to promote cognitive engagement and emotional regulation.
Find Your Local Joyful Dance Session
The free weekly classes are held at various locations across Rushcliffe to ensure they are accessible to as many people as possible. The full schedule is as follows:
- Mondays: 11am at Keyworth Village Hall & 1pm at Thurlbeck Court, Cotgrave.
- Tuesdays: 11am at Cricketers Court, West Bridgford.
- Thursdays: 9.30am at Chestnut Avenue Community Centre, Bingham; 11.30am at St Peters Rooms, Ruddington; and 1pm at St Paul’s Church Hall, West Bridgford.
To book a free place, residents can visit the IMPACD CIC website or call 07725 325707.
Official Endorsement and Participant Praise
The initiative has received strong backing from local leadership. Deputy Leader Cllr Abby Brennan recently visited a session at St Paul’s Church in West Bridgford, hosted by IMPACD CIC director Amanda Hose-Hawley.
Cllr Brennan stated: "Through our UKSPF allocation, we’re supporting projects that boost health and wellbeing. This initiative is a wonderful example of bringing people together, improving wellbeing, and reducing isolation through dance and movement." She encouraged anyone interested to come along, meet new people, and have fun.
The sessions have already made a tangible difference. Participant Margaret Sharpe shared, "I was feeling tired and stiff at home but joining these sessions has helped me feel more active and connected." Another attendee, Jo, emphasised the accessibility, saying, "Even if you can’t move much, you can adapt the exercises. These sessions mean a lot to me."
Amanda Hose-Hawley added that the project welcomes volunteers, especially those interested in leading sessions, to help embed these joyful gatherings deeper into the community.
