STEP TO IT: Rutland’s Inclusive dance group

This project has allowed people with a disability to be part of a weekly dance session. With almost 100% attendance from all participants. The group is formed of both girls and boys ranging from 12-19 years old.

This group started out in January and has grown massively now regulars on the dance stage! They have performed at the community dance show and even in front of royalty! The year has been topped of when the group won "Project of the year" at Rutland Sports awards.

The sessions are delivered by Sarah Bell who runs Rutland youth dance academy, an experienced dancer who has jumped at the opportunity to engage with a new audience. These sessions are also supported by RCC Active Rutland officers. STEP TO IT takes place at Brightways community centre every Thursday 5-6pm.

This project hasn't only been a success for the participants involved but also the parents. It has given them opportunity to chat and get to know other parents but also see their child improve in ways they might not have before.

"STEP TO IT has been a brilliant project for me. I've never really been interested in dance or preforming, but I have loved being given this opportunity to learn hip hop/pop by a professional and then being able to perform! It's definitely helped my confidence and self-esteem as I've been able to express myself through dance and get fit at the same time; I hope this group continues and I'd recommend dance to anyone." - Yasmeen