10 million people in the UK are over 65 years old, this is one-in-six of the population. The latest projections are for 5.5 million more elderly people in 20 years time and for the number to have nearly doubled to around 19 million by 2050, so it is important that there are safe classes for people in this age-range.

Freedom in Dance (FiD) is a dance programme specifically for people who are 50 years of age, or thereabouts. It comprises four elements:

• Commissioning work which challenges stereotypes of ageing
• Regular classes
• Community projects
• OCN accredited training course (level2 and level3) for dance leaders who want to work with people who are over 50 years old

All elements of the programme are inter-related and work collectively to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy high quality dance experiences.

In Lincolnshire projections show that by 2020 there will be 73,000 more older people living in Lincolnshire than in 2006. In addition, many of these people will have moved away from family and community networks to retire to an area where they have no support, thus creating a generation of potentially isolated and vulnerable people. The FiD programme provides opportunities for them to make new friends and connections whilst having fun dancing at regular classes and longer term projects. Details of classes and community projects can be found in the What's On section of the web site.

The OCN accredited course includes a range of theoretical and practical lessons and is open to anyone with a background in dance, care or an interest in either to learn how to lead dance with people over 50, whether physically fit (but just over 50) or elderly and frail. The course comprises 7 blocks of 2-day taught inputs and a placement in a residential care home or community setting. The Freedom In Dance course costs £850, payment plans can be set up to suit the student’s financial situation. We also offer a range of shorter courses and bespoke training packages which can lead to module accreditation.

Click to visit the gallery and see pictures of our latest Commission - When I Grow Up

More Information

For more information about Lincolnshire Dance or to find out how you can get involved in Dance in your area, please contact us on 01522 811 811.