On Tuesday the 9th of August, SMILE’s Principal Practice Education Manager Lyndsey Woods, and Engagement & Wellbeing Tutor, Jade Amis were invited to 3 Counties Radio station to promote the care sector in Hertfordshire and what services and benefits HCPA and SMILE offer care providers and their service users through education and engagement.
The interview also focused the Wheelchair Dancing course SMILE have been running for residents from B&M Care’s St Matthews and The Lodge. Jade explained this course encourages physical stimulation in an enjoyable way while preventing social isolation, which is a key concern in the social care sector, especially for those living with dementia.
The 6 week Wheelchair Dance course is one of many projects from SMILE funded by HAFLS. Service users learn a range of wheelchair dancing styles including the waltz, samba & jive, instructors are trained by the Wheelchair Dance Sport Association UK (WDSA UK) and can teach up to competition standard. Those who are not in wheelchairs can join in too!
“Dancing really is for everyone and I believe it is good for the soul and when the music comes on, everyone can connect, and it really brings the group together.”
– Jade Amis, Engagement & Wellbeing Tutor
Listen to the 3 Counties Radio interview below:
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If you are interested in wheelchair dancing for your service users, SMILE are able to offer classes at £65 per session.
To book the funded 6 week Wheelchair Dance course please email smile@hcpa.info or call 01707 536020.
A full list of services SMILE is available here: hcpasmile.info
SMILE can be utilised by residential and support at home services and with all client groups from physical diabilities, learning disabilities and older people.