INSPIRE is an inclusive creative dance project, led by DL. Bridge artist Katy Hewison, for young people aged 7-14yrs with a physical disability/learning difficulty. Involving a block of 6 inspirational workshops, an advisory group for family members & a supportive training program for a team of 4 dance artists to deliver & learn together.
This project will enable participants to learn new dance skills and gain a sense of belonging to a group. It will be an opportunity for them to carry out a dance activity in an out of school environment, making new friends and meeting new roles models that understand and support their needs. All of this has the potential to increase their self-esteem, confidence and teamwork skills, improving their physical and mental health.
The project will allow parents and wider family members to be part of a new community and regular meet up group. Their feedback will inform and enable new opportunities in the future and families will see the positive impact dance workshops have on children and young people throughout the project and particularly during the sharing day.
Artist collaborators will gain a new set skill from the project, creating long term benefits for their independent practice and the wider dance community.
"The dance artists began from where the children were at and provided the channels and opportunities for the children to express their creativity through movement" - Staff Member from St Vincents
