Background
SiD is a company committed to inclusive dance practice. Since 2012 we have delivered distinct, exemplary and creative driven dance projects, weekly classes and workshops, which facilitate individuals’ creativity, inclusion and community cohesion.
Social impacts, include wellbeing and health. Participation in dance can reduce stress, depression and need for medication, and contribute to increased volunteering and charitable giving.
Dance & performance creates enriching experiences, and cultural belonging increases community pride, cohesion and social inclusion.
‘C’ became involved with our work in 2021 online during Covid. We were contacted by ‘C’s foster parent and ‘C’ joined our fortnightly dance session for young people aged 11-17 years called Highflyers. At this time, we were delivering online.
The challenge and the support provided
Prior to participating with SiD, we visited ‘C’ in his home setting. ‘C’ was really struggling in mainstream school at the time and was presently not attending school due to bullying. His foster parents of 7 years were also struggling, and the home environment was proving very challenging. ‘C’ has learning disabilities, ADHD and behavioural challenges but loved to move and be active. When we met ‘C’, we knew ‘C’ could get a great deal from dancing with us – working in a small group, in a relaxed, friendly environment with plenty of specialist support.
The result
When ‘C’ attended the first Darwin Dancers session, he was exceptionally quiet and sat watching intently on a chair that was placed at the edge of room. The team actively included C from his position, involving him in games, and giving him the specific role of taking pictures of the session and filming on the iPad – which ‘C’ really enjoyed. ‘C’ is unable to be filmed or photographed himself due to safeguarding reasons.
‘C’ has grown significantly in confidence since that very first session, ‘C’ rarely misses a session and arrives excited and chatty ready to get going! One of the most significant changes is his improved ability to remain focused, there is a marked difference in concentration, he cannot only sustain a full dance class but can now cooperate fully – an area he struggled with in our early sessions.
‘C’ now fully participates and works closely with the lead artist to lead key aspects of the session, contributing to warm up for example. During the rehearsals leading up to a performance C actively contributed fantastic ideas, many of which were used in the final performance piece.
‘C’ works brilliantly with other members of the group and has formed strong friendships, something he was unable to do at school. He also met his girlfriend through Darwin Dancers. Parent and carers who accompany and support young participants to attend, including C’s foster mum have created strong friendships also, meeting up for social get togethers outside the sessions, offering an additional much needed support structure.
‘C’ is attending Darwin Dancers during the summer, the next step up in his dance journey. We are delighted to see ‘C’ commitment and love of dance reap many rewards, particularly regarding growth in confidence and communication. He is a much loved and respected member of the group and is exceptionally supportive and encouraging of others.
Looking forward
‘C’ is very keen to get a job, having finished college. SiD have written a letter of support acknowledging his strengths and achievements, as well as outlining the best environment and conditions for this young man to thrive.
I just had so much fun with people practicing and performing. I tried new things and just want to keep doing this. Thank you.
‘C’
Photos courtesy of Shropshire inclusive Dance
