Can a Dance Class Help You Forget Your Worries?

Hannah, a 17-year-old wheelchair dancer, embodies the joy of movement and community found in inclusive dance classes, which offer individuals of all abilities the chance to engage in para dance. These sessions, led by Lizzie Large at West Oxfordshire Wheelchair Dance (WOWD), have created a supportive environment for young people with disabilities, fostering social connections and enhancing physical and mental health.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Inclusive dance is gaining momentum in the UK, particularly through initiatives like West Oxfordshire Wheelchair Dance (WOWD). Founded by Lizzie Large, WOWD provides a platform for individuals with disabilities to learn and participate in dance, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The recent inaugural Para Dance IPC and World Ability Sports Para Dance Championships in Stevenage highlighted the growing recognition of para dance, with competitors from Oxfordshire achieving remarkable success.

Key takeaways

• Hannah and her peers benefit from social interaction and support in inclusive dance classes.
• WOWD promotes physical and mental health through the art of dance.
• Recent championships showcase the achievements of para dancers and the sport's growing popularity.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of inclusive dance in the UK has seen significant milestones, particularly in recent years:

• 2014: Lizzie Large founded West Oxfordshire Wheelchair Dance (WOWD).
• 2023: Nathan reached the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent, bringing attention to para dance.
• September 2023: The inaugural Para Dance IPC and World Ability Sports Para Dance Championships took place in Stevenage.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent Para Dance IPC and World Ability Sports Para Dance Championships marked a significant event in the para dance calendar, showcasing the talents of dancers from various backgrounds, including those from Oxfordshire who won multiple medals.

What was already established

For years, para dance has been a growing sector within the arts, with initiatives like WOWD paving the way for inclusivity. While the sport is recognised by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), it has yet to be included in the 2024 Paralympic Games.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The rise of inclusive dance classes like WOWD provides families and individuals with disabilities more opportunities for engagement, promoting social interaction and enhancing mental well-being within the community.

Businesses and jobs

As organisations like WOWD expand, there are increased opportunities for jobs within the arts, coaching, and community support roles, contributing to local economies.

Policy and regulation

With para dance's recognition as a competitive sport, there may be forthcoming discussions regarding its inclusion in future Paralympic events, which could influence funding and support for inclusive initiatives across the UK.

Numbers that matter

• 3 gold medals won by Oxfordshire competitors at the recent championships.
• 2 silver medals achieved, highlighting the calibre of participating dancers.
• 1 major event (the Para Dance IPC Championships) indicating growth in the sport.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Para Dance: A form of dance that is inclusive of individuals with disabilities, allowing for various adaptations.
• IPC: International Paralympic Committee, the governing body for para sports.
• WorldAbility Sport: The organisation that currently oversees the governance of para dance following its separation from the IPC.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect increased participation in local dance classes as awareness of para dance grows, especially following recent achievements in competitions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor potential policy discussions regarding the inclusion of para dance in future Paralympic events, which could significantly impact funding and support for inclusive initiatives.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming announcements from the International Paralympic Committee regarding future events.
• Local community engagement levels in inclusive sports and arts activities.
• Success rates of participants in competitions, which may influence funding and interest.

Practical guidance

Do

• Engage with local inclusive dance classes to promote social and physical activity.
• Support events and competitions that highlight para dance and its participants.
• Advocate for the inclusion of para dance in future sports agendas.

Don’t

• Don’t overlook the importance of inclusive activities for individuals with disabilities.
• Don’t assume that opportunities for social interaction are readily available.
• Don’t dismiss the potential impact of para dance on mental health and well-being.

Checklist

• Research local inclusive dance classes to join or support.
• Attend community events showcasing para dance talents.
• Monitor developments in para dance governance and competitions.
• Engage with organisations advocating for inclusive sports.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the growth of para dance is promising, uncertainties remain regarding its future inclusion in major sporting events like the Paralympics. The evolving governance structure under WorldAbility Sport presents both opportunities and challenges, and potential funding disparities may affect the sustainability of such inclusive programmes.

Bottom line

The rise of inclusive dance, spearheaded by initiatives like WOWD, signifies a positive shift towards acceptance and celebration of diversity in the performing arts. As para dance continues to gain recognition, particularly with recent competitive successes, the hope remains strong for its future inclusion in the Paralympic Games, fostering greater opportunities for dancers with disabilities.

FAQs

What is para dance?

Para dance is an inclusive form of dance that allows individuals with disabilities to participate, adapting movements and styles to suit their abilities.

How can I get involved in inclusive dance classes?

Interested individuals can research local dance schools or community centres that offer inclusive dance programmes, such as West Oxfordshire Wheelchair Dance.

Why is para dance important for mental health?

Para dance provides opportunities for social interaction, expression, and physical activity, all of which are beneficial for mental health and overall well-being.