FREE dance classes have been helping Droitwich Spa residents living with dementia or disabilities and their carers get in the groove.
Artist Rachel Freeman, of Everybody Dance, has secured funding from The National Emergencies Trust, Herefordshire Community Foundation and The Skinners’ Company Lady Neville Charity, to run the project.
Participants and their carers can let Rachel know their favourite music and she will turn up in a garden or nearby open space to hold dance sessions to suit all abilities.
The sessions are free and carried out at a safe social distance.
Rachel, who has over 40 years experience of working creatively with people of all ages and abilities, said: “Lockdown has seen a lot of community groups and organisations close down which has been devastating to a lot of people and their carers.
“Securing the funding means I can go out to these people to provide social and physical interaction – and even just a listening ear.”
Josie Darroch who is 89 and lives in Vines Lane, has benefited from the sessions as she usually attends seated yoga at The Herriots, run by Duke Yoga and the Worcester Warriors Tackling Dementia Sports Café.
Her daughter, Anne-Marie Harley said: “My mum loves her community sessions and also going out for a cuppa and a cake all of which couldn’t happen after lockdown.
“Mum loves dancing with Rachel and really interacts with her.”
Rachel uses props such as brightly coloured feathers and scarves as part of the session.
“Rachel connects with my mum who smiles during the session which she really looks forward too – me too!”
E-mail [email protected] for more information.
