Lancashire-based inclusive arts charity launches ground-breaking video project

DanceSyndrome has created a series of six informational videos to help change the way that people think about learning disabilities.

The films demonstrate the many ways that people with learning disabilities can live fulfilled lives, contributing to society and becoming visible leaders, performers, and advocates.

The project has been supported by the national nursing directorate at NHS England and the videos will be shared with healthcare professionals, including midwives and learning disability nurses, to give them new insight into their work.

Julie Nicholson, the charity’s managing director, said: "This has been such an important project for DanceSyndrome. One of the most important parts of our mission is to change the way that people think about disability and what people are able to achieve with the right support.

"The videos talk about how there is beauty and significance in all movement and the importance of adaptations in making activities truly inclusive and accessible. They show why inclusive activities are important for people with and without disabilities to make connections, build friendships and learn transferrable skills which can be used in all aspects of life.”

Jen Blackwell, who has Down's Syndrome founded the charity after struggling to find opportunities to train and work in dance because of her learning disability. With the help of her parents, the charity was set up to support people with and without disabilities to work together to follow their dreams in dance.

The videos can be viewed at https://learningdisabilitynurse.co.uk/dancesyndrome