Get Out Get Active teams up with Yorkshire Dance and Dance United
Get Out Get Active (GOGA) partners Bradford Disability Sport and Leisure, are bringing dance sessions to communities in the Holmewood estate.
GOGA Bradford has been working closely with Yorkshire Dance and Dance United to deliver Street Zumba sessions to those who live in the Holmewood estate.
After the success of these sessions in Leeds, GOGA decided to pilot the same scheme across Bradford with Yorkshire Dance On and Dance United.
The sessions for older adults originally took place at St Christopher’s Church, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced the team to change their plan.
As Bradford had been placed in a local lockdown, GOGA Bradford and Bradford Disability Sport and Leisure decided to build on these early sessions by encouraging people to participate in the safety and comfort of their gardens. This would help both disabled and non-disabled people of all ages come together to stay active.
Armed with a team of volunteers and instructors, GOGA Bradford, Yorkshire Dance and Dance United took to the streets of Holmewood to deliver six weeks of dancing outside during lockdown.
It’s giving us something to do whilst we are all stuck at home. I haven’t seen half of my neighbours in months so it’s good to see people getting out and joining in.
GOGA Bradford participant
The sessions saw people of all ages and abilities joining in, from children to parents and grandparents. Those with limited mobility could also take part, and joined in with their families and neighbours.
Since we started Dancing on the Street, everyone has been extremely happy. They have loved seeing each other again as well as being able to get their dancing shoes back on.
Laura Liddon, Yorkshire Dance Coordinator
These dance sessions were a huge success across the Holmewood estate. They not only engaged people in physical activity, but they also helped participants find some happiness with friends and neighbours during a difficult time.
This story is part of our campaign, #TheGOGAWay. Showing how the GOGA approach can help organisations do things differently across the UK.
About Get Out Get Active
Get Out Get Active (GOGA) is a programme that supports disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy being active together. Activity Alliance is the creator and lead partner. The programme is funded by Spirit of 2012, Sport England and London Marathon Charitable Trust.