
Jen Blackwell, Founder of DanceSyndrome, was announced as one of the most influential people with a disability in the UK at a reception at the House of Lords on Tuesday 8th October.
The Shaw Trust Disability Power List 100 is an annual publication of the 100 most influential disabled people in the UK. The list is compiled by an independent judging panel, chaired by Kate Nash who was awarded an OBE for services to disabled people in 2007. In 2013 she was appointed Ambassador to Disability Rights UK.
DanceSyndrome is multi-award winning dance charity that delivers inclusive dance workshops and dance leadership training. The team also give inspiring performances that demonstrate a focus on ability rather than disability. DanceSyndrome was founded by Jen, who happens to have Down’s syndrome, because she found it difficult to find opportunities in community dance due to her disability. Our ethos is that disability should never be a barrier to following your dreams. Dancers with and without disabilities work together to inspire people to see what can be achieved when we all become more inclusive.
This inclusive approach to dance has resulted in Jen being included on the Power List for the last two years.
Jen said: “I’m a winner again! I’m the Founder of DanceSyndrome, recognised and accepted for who I am. I’m being the best that I can be, creating opportunities and changing lives. My charity shows the world what we can do, but we need charitable giving and people like you to help us make better futures for everyone.”
The full Shaw Trust Disability Power List 100 can be found on www.disabilitypower100.com.
If you are inspired by Jen’s achievements, we need your support. Visit the Support Us page to find out about ways you can sustain our work, or you can donate directly via the form below: