This Learning Disability Week, we are pleased to share a new article published in Perspectives in Public Health.
The article is titled “DanceSyndrome explores the role of co-produced inclusive dance in advancing public health.” It considers how DanceSyndrome is helping to create more inclusive opportunities for people with and without disabilities through dance, leadership and performance. It shows how creative health approaches can support wellbeing, reduce isolation, build confidence and strengthen social connection.
At DanceSyndrome we believe that people with learning disabilities should not only be included but actively involved in leading and shaping creative opportunities. Founded by Jen Blackwell, who has Down’s syndrome, DanceSyndrome places co-production at the centre of our work. This means that people with learning disabilities are not just participants, but leaders, performers and decision-makers.
The article in Perspectives in Public Health shares evidence of the impact this approach can have. For many participants, taking part in our sessions offers much more than simply dance and movement. It can build self-belief, support mental health, encourage physical activity and create meaningful friendships.
Dance Leader John Burrow features in the article. John is a great example of how DanceSyndrome helps people to grow in confidence, purpose and resilience, while also supporting people to progress on to leadership roles and become “experts by experience” in wider conversations about inclusion.
The article also explores how DanceSyndrome’s work reaches beyond the dance space. Through partnerships with organisations including the Foundation of Nursing Studies, NHS England and a number of North West universities, DanceSyndrome has developed workshops and training that help health and care professionals to think differently about inclusion, communication and person-centred practice. This shows how creative, co-produced approaches can contribute to system change as well as personal wellbeing.
This week is national Learning Disability Week 2026, which is focused on the theme “Do you see me?” This annual campaign asks us all to think about whether people with a learning disability are truly seen, heard and valued in all areas of life. DanceSyndrome’s work, and this Perspectives in Public Health article in particular, shows what becomes possible when people with learning disabilities are given the chance to lead, create and be recognised for their talents and contribution.
For DanceSyndrome, inclusive dance is not only about movement and Art, it is also a way of tackling inequality, supporting recovery, strengthening communities and changing attitudes. We hope this article helps to spark further discussion about the value of creative health and the importance of disability-led, co-produced practice in public health.
You can read the full article on the Perspectives in Public Health Journal website.
If your organisation is interested in exploring partnership working around inclusive creative health, learning disability inclusion, workforce development or co-produced practice, we would love to hear from you. Please Contact Us for more information.
