Windermere School has become the first independent school in Cumbria to offer Community Come Dancing sessions. Year 5 pupils from the school are dancing with older members of the Windermere community in a project designed to help those living with dementia.
In partnership with Dignity in Dementia and The Kendal Dementia Action Alliance, these sessions aim to recreate the atmosphere of 1950s and 60s dance halls, stimulating the memories of those who have experienced them firsthand.
“The number of people with dementia in the UK is growing, as is the research pointing to the benefits of bringing the young and old in a community together” said Mrs. Julie King, Head of Elleray, the Preparatory division of Windermere School where the Community Come Dancing sessions are taking place.
“Our pupils are learning the dances and finding out about the music and clothes of the 50s and 60s, while being educated in how to confidently and positively approach those with dementia in a way that not only maintains, but enhances their dignity” Mrs. King explains .
Service is one of the Five Pillars of Round Square upon which the ethos of Windermere School is built. Students are encouraged to take part in social action that is based on a deep understanding of the challenges and issues faced by both individuals and communities in need of support.
The hope for those attending the Community Come Dancing sessions is that the enjoyment, increased physical activity, reminiscing and forming of new relationships will help decrease loneliness, while the music will soothe, stimulate and potentially bring to mind long-forgotten memories. People can dance to their hearts content or just sit, watch, drink a cup of tea and enjoy listening to the music.
Community Come Dancing sessions take place at Windermere School, Elleray Campus, on alternate Friday afternoons during term time. It’s open to the whole community and Dignity in Dementia is present to support those with dementia.
The next session takes place on Friday 04 October 2019.
If you wish to attend a Community Come Dancing session please visit http://www.dignityindementia.org/services/dementiasinging/ for details.
Community Come Dancing sessions are taking place every other Friday at Windermere School, Elleray Campus, Ambleside Road, Windermere, The Lake District, LA23 1AP.
Please contact Miss Bethany Spottiswood, Marketing Manager at Windermere School at [email protected], for more information.
