HELP US TO PUT OUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

In 2017, Torbay Culture worked with health sector partners to set up a ground-breaking dance programme for older people in Torbay, an experiment to test whether dance could improve their mobility and reduce the risk of falls. Local charity Dance in Devon was commissioned to deliver the 25-week pilot, 'Best Foot Forward', and a group of individuals, supported by their doctors and families, began their journey to see how dancing together might help them to regain strength, confidence and independence.

What a difference a year makes! Now a group of beaming, brave, energetic dancers, their journey has been almost unbelievable. We are all blown away by their commitment, courage and artistry. Developing balance and confidence together, the group has also become a tight-knit, supportive community.

"The companionship and the fun we've had in these classes have really brought me back
to life again... I haven't got time to die, I need to go on a bit longer!"
(Best Foot Forward participant)

We are so proud of the team that made this happen but the funding for the Best Foot Forward pilot has come to an end. The programme really has been life-changing for the participants and we don’t want to stop these amazing people dancing together. We would also love to see this opportunity provided for other people. We need your support to carry on.

Dance in Devon has set up a crowd-funding campaign to raise £5,000 by 14th August, which will mean that they can deliver the Best Foot Forward programme for a further 6 months. Please help to support this amazing work by pledging what you can: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/best-foot-forward-dance-for-older-people

Best Foot Forward