Dance classes aim to keep elderly on their feet

Pensioners are being invited to take a hop, skip and jump to help others learn dance moves - and avoid taking a tumble.
Participants taking part in a previous Falling at Your Feet session.Participants taking part in a previous Falling at Your Feet session.
Participants taking part in a previous Falling at Your Feet session.

Over 65s across South Tyneside are being offered the chance sign up to lead their own Make Dance Happen classes at the Customs House in South Shields.

Led by Helix Arts on behalf of the Cultural Spring, the programme will support residents and artists as they run classes.

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As well as upping fitness levels, the sessions will help people avoid trips and falls by improving their movement and balance.

Susie Batey, creative producer for Helix Arts, said: “Our brand new Make Dance Happen programme gives local people the chance to plan their own dance classes in their own communities.

“It’s a ‘learning by doing’ programme and provides participants with the skills and knowledge to co-produce neighbourhood arts events on their doorstep.

“It means more people can benefit from building confidence through dance, reducing the risk of falls and meeting new friends.”

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Emma Horsman, project director at Cultural Spring, said: “Falling on Your Feet continues to be successful in building confidence, reducing isolation and increasing older people’s independence - dance and movement can improve your mood, fitness and your overall wellbeing.

“The aims of objectives of Cultural Spring include increasing participation in arts and culture events and also increasing capacity in communities to produce and deliver their own activities and this partnership with Helix Arts does both.”

For more details visit www.theculturalspring.co.uk.