In 2008 County Arts Service lead a countywide arts and health programme that aimed to test the impact of dance on the heath of participants. Participants from all walks of life and ability were invited to take part. With support of Warwickshire Youth Service, two of the programmes resulted in youth dance development work in Alcester and Atherstone.

 Both of these youth specific programmes attracted young people who were willing to take of the challenge and increase the amount of exercise in their lives, the participations were asked to  complete health checks and questionnaires  as well as a 3 month programme of regular dance lessons provided by professional dance instructors. On the 9^th November the two youth groups met up for the first time to share their experience show off their new found skills and celebrate their achievements.

The group in Atherstone enjoyed the programme so much that they are planning to continue to develop delivery into sustainable youth led dance provision that is a little bit different to the normal dance school providers that young people usually encounter.

   If you would like to know about the programme and how it impacted on the      health of participants contact

  Clare Mitchell Youth Arts Development Worker

   Tel. 01926 742486