DanceSyndrome is a Lancashire based charity led by adult Dance Leaders with learning disabilities, who inspire people to believe that everyone has talents, skills and abilities and the right to a fulfilling, inclusive life of their own choice. They co-produce, co-choreograph and co-deliver dance performances, dance classes and Dance Leader training qualifications. The focus is on what they can do despite being visually impaired and blind, hearing impaired and wheelchair users. 

The donation from The Arts Society, Samlesbury was given for the young adults to extend their repertoire and introduce partner dancing. Primary Dance U.K. (Already working in schools) was engaged to plan and deliver a scheduled programme. The lesson plans and choreography were written, and the dance movements produced digitally by highly qualified experienced dance teachers. DanceSyndrome usually work indoors at community halls, however, due to the pandemic the young adults practised in their own homes via Zoom and in groups in two local parks in Preston with special permission from the council. 

Working together DanceSyndrome and Primary Dance U.K. combined their knowledge and hosted a webinar to show teachers in mainstream education how to deliver dance sessions regardless of any lack of previous dance experience, dance knowledge or training. Teachers were shown how to differentiate and make adaptations to dance for all pupils using examples of short dance activities and routines via the online platform. The focus on “ability not disability” is a great example to share with everyone.