Inclusive tap dance classes are being used to help people living with dementia.

Dance artist Annie Woodhouse, of Kirkby, is working in partnership with Ashfield District Council and PlatformThirty1 to create and deliver the classes.

The dance sessions aim to spark creativity, inspire movement, empower individuals and encourage a sense of community through tap dancing.

The project, Tap In To, is being funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

Coun Tom Hollis, deputy leader of the council and portfolio holder for health and leisure, said: “Tap In To is a great initiative that allows those who suffer with dementia the opportunity to not only have fun with the people that they care about, but to also allow them be in a social environment with others in the same situation.

“Dementia can be isolating and it’s initiatives like this that make us proud of our community in Ashfield.”

The sessions use unique equipment sourced from Australia and suitable for those with limited mobility.

Tap In To is delivering taster sessions at Five Gables Care Home, Kirkby, and Ashfield and Mansfield working age dementia hub, Lammas Leisure Centre, Sutton.

Coun Hollis added: “We are proud to support this fantastic initiative to enable the residents in our community who live with dementia, and those who tirelessly care for people with dementia, the opportunity to take part in fun and social activities like this. We will continue to support initiatives like this to help Ashfield become more dementia friendly.”

For more information about the project contact Dianne Holmes, health and wellbeing officer, at [email protected] or 01623 457233.