Episode 065: Interview with Jen and Sue Blackwell

The Business Awards Show

Jen and Sue Blackwell are a dynamic mother-and-daughter duo who are changing the lives of people with learning disabilities through dance. They created Dance Syndrome in 2009 and it was registered as a charity in 2013. They strive to continue to provide new and exciting opportunities for people who may otherwise be excluded from mainstream dance. We believe that everyone has the right to follow their own interests and passions – whether they have a disability or not.

Sue said ' Jen wanted to follow her dream of being a dancer and dance leader. Jen went to mainstream school and whilst there she realised how much she loved to dance and decided that she wanted to become a community dance worker. After leaving school, Jen found herself in the frustrating position of not being able to fulfil her ambition because there was no suitable dance training for a person with a learning disability. After 10 years of unsuccessfully searching for training that was appropriate and inclusive, it became clear that many others were in the same situation. Something needed to change so we took matters into our own hands."

Dance Syndrome has an equal number of learning-disabled and non-disabled company members, and provides inclusive dance and leadership opportunities for people who believe disability need not be a barrier to living life to the full. All dance activity is led and informed by people with learning disabilities. Dance Syndrome activities give people confidence, respect, value and self-belief through our philosophy of ‘anything is possible even though you have a learning disability.

{0.20} What is Dance Syndrome

{1.28} Sue and Jen talk about the journey of Dance Syndrome

{4.22} The demand for Dance Syndrome and its growth across the North West

{5.12} Future expansion across the UK

{6.01} Different awards Dance Syndrome have won

{8.22} The biggest highlight for Sue and Jen

{9.00} Future Plans for Dance Syndrome

{13.10} How you can get involved with Dance Syndrome

{15.01} Dance Syndrome's top tips

Find out more here:

Website: https://dancesyndrome.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DancesyndromeUK/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dancesyndromeuk/