This is an innovative service for older people including those with dementia, run jointly by the South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Calderdale Borough Council operaring in three day centres (Higgins Close, Lower Edge, Hebden Vale) and on Beechdale Ward at Calderdale Royal Hospital.

The service was set up in 2005 and involves the use of Music, Movement, Dance, Reminiscence and Song within a Person-Centred philosophy, including a framework and Codes of Practice as understood and regulated by the Association of Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK Ltd.

It is primarily group-based, led by a leading national and international specialist in the field, and has pioneered the development of new approaches to practising and better understanding the importance of ’embodiment’ and embodied practices in dementia care. Where cognition is impaired it makes good sense to go by way of the body and non-verbal communications; for the arts enable other ‘ways-in’ or triggers for day attender’s both to stay in touch with remaining capacities and resources and thus remain for longer living independently in community.

Outcomes have included increased well-being, improved social interactiion, improved mobility and communications. It is essential that the embodied nature of human communication be better understood and applied, particularly in relation to the challenges and opportunities presented when living with dementia.

Future plans involve dance projects in both Greece and Turkey and here in the UK.

Download Dance Movement Psychotherapy Service Evaluation 2005-2013