Dance on Prescription is a new initiative in central Basildon which supports residents to enjoy a better quality of life through dancing. Selected patients are prescribed dancing to help improve their physical health and mental wellbeing.
The Dance on Prescription classes are led by professional dance teachers at a community centre in Pitsea and shortly to be launched at the Beach Community Hub. There are also sessions at a local care homes and a supported housing complex. At each venue, the classes are designed through the advice and liaison of the PCN and support of the Activity Coordinators at each home.
The programme has been devised by local GP Practice Manager, Dr Sue Truman. It is currently being offered to selected patients at the six surgeries in the Central Basildon Primary Care Network. Dancing on Prescription is a collaborative project involving Mid and South Essex Health and Care Partnership, Basildon Council and Active Essex. The programme also links to walking groups in Central Basildon PCN organised by Jo Copland, Practice Manager at one of the other member practices.
“It’s about dance, it’s about movement, it’s about bringing people together and about improving people’s health outcomes, physically and mentally.
“The benefits of Dancing on Prescription are not only health, but it’s also about lowering blood pressure, feeling better in yourself and engaging with other people and becoming a full part of society and being in society.”
Dr Sue Truman
GP practice colleague Dr Mohammed Aslam admits he was sceptical at first:
“When Sue came to me with this idea of Dancing on Prescription, I didn’t believe it could work but when I saw the classes for the first time. I was amazed how people got involved, were motivated, forgetting their shyness and exercising without realising they were exercising.
“There are certain things you can’t treat with medication and there are other solutions you need in addition to medication. This is part of a holistic treatment plan. it is a very good initiative and I think if it was developed across the county, it would benefit a lot of patients.”
Dr Mohammed Aslam
To be referred for Dancing on Prescription, please contact your local GP practice and speak to the Social Prescriber.
