Councillor supports launch of Dancing with Dementia classes in Highwoods

A monthly, free Dancing with Dementia programme will begin in Highwoods this month, funded by councillor Alison Jay's locality budget and delivered by the Dance Network Association.

A new monthly dance class for people living with dementia is launching in Highwoods this month. The programme, called Dancing with Dementia, is supported by councillor Alison Jay's locality budget. Sessions will be delivered by Dance Network Association, an Essex charity with more than a decade of experience. Classes will be free of charge and held at St John's and Highwoods Community Centre. Key details: - The programme offers monthly sessions specifically designed for people living with dementia. - Funding comes from councillor Alison Jay's locality budget and the sessions are led by Dance Network Association. - Classes will take place at St John's and Highwoods Community Centre and are free to attend. - Sessions blend music, creative dance, sensory engagement and social interaction to support emotional wellbeing, stimulate memory connection and reduce isolation. - No previous dance experience is required. Summary: The initiative aims to provide gentle movement, musical engagement and social contact for people living with dementia and their companions. Organisers report the programme can support emotional wellbeing and help reduce feelings of isolation. The sessions will begin this month as monthly classes. Undetermined at this time.