DanceSyndrome takes over Manchester Piccadilly train station on World Down's Syndrome Day

ExCo

From 10:30am - 1pm, DanceSyndrome's Dance Leaders, who have Down's Syndrome and other learning disabilities, will lead inclusive dance performances on the station concourse and invite members of the public to watch or join in. The takeover will celebrate diversity, challenge perceptions of disability and demonstrate what is possible when people are included and supported to be leaders.

DanceSyndrome was founded by Jen Blackwell, who has Down's syndrome, after she experienced barriers to accessing community dance opportunities. The charity is now recognised nationally for its disability-led model, where people with learning disabilities work in equal partnership with professional Dance Artists to co-create high-quality dance activities. The organisation's ethos is that disability should never be a barrier to following your dreams.

The Manchester Piccadilly takeover builds on the success of previous station performances at Manchester Oxford Road, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport and Blackpool North. These events have attracted large audiences and national media coverage, including features on BBC North West Tonight and ITV.

This year's World Down's Syndrome Day event is especially significant because it also marks the final day of a major personal fundraising challenge by Becky Rich, one of DanceSyndrome's Dance Leaders, spokespeople and ambassadors.

Becky, 35, from Preston, has been involved with DanceSyndrome for 12 years and is a passionate advocate for disability rights and inclusion. To raise funds and awareness for the charity, Becky has completed a 63-day "Trisomy 21 Triathlon." Each day she committed to 210 boxing punches, at least 2,100 steps through walking or dancing, and 21 minutes on her exercise bike, repeating the challenge over three 21-day periods and finishing on 21st March 2026.

Becky said: "I am proud to have Down's Syndrome. Trisomy 21 means there is a third copy of chromosome 21, so I thought a triathlon would be a good way to raise money for my charity. Every day I have pushed myself with my punches, my steps and my bike, and I am finishing on World Down's Syndrome Day to show people what we are able to do when we get the right support. I hope my challenge makes people more aware of DanceSyndrome and helps other people join in and be proud."

DanceSyndrome Managing Director Julie Nicholson said: "World Down's Syndrome Day is an important opportunity to take time to celebrate the achievements of people with Down's Syndrome and to underline how vital strong support systems are. At DanceSyndrome we see every day what people can achieve when they are valued, included and given opportunities to lead. Our station takeovers bring that message into the heart of the community, and we are especially proud to share this moment with Becky as she completes her incredible fundraising challenge. Becky is a brilliant role model whose passion and determination inspire everyone around her. All of our Dance Leaders proudly demonstrate how much people can achieve when you give them the right time and support to be who they want to be. The station takeover is a great opportunity for people to meet them and see how impactful our work is."

Members of the public are welcome to watch or join in as DanceSyndrome takes over Manchester Piccadilly Station from 10:30am - 1pm on Saturday 21st March 2026.

For more information about DanceSyndrome’s inclusive dance sessions or how to support the charity, including through Becky’s campaign, you can visit www.dancesyndrome.co.uk or follow @DanceSyndromeUK on social media.