Partnership to explore how movement can benefit staff working in care settings

National Dance Company Wales and Cartrefi Cymru are delighted to announce a new partnership which will begin with the delivery of a special pilot project called ‘Moving Beyond Compliance’. The pioneering project is a stepping stone to a larger aspiration and is a unique opportunity for Cartrefi Cymru staff to explore new ways to support their wellbeing and to also inspire a model that could in future benefit staff working in a range of care settings. 

Cartrefi Cymru is a multi-stakeholder cooperative that supports people with learning difficulties in Wales to live good lives in the community. 

Susan Coffey, Cartrefi Cymru’s Finance Director explained, “Social care is under enormous strain, which has been further impacted by Covid 19, however staff have continued to show compassion, endurance and creativity throughout. That’s why we’re so excited to be part of this project which aims to celebrate commitment of staff, with a focus on their wellbeing and having fun.” 

The project will be delivered by dance artists Yvette Halfhide, Marla King and Jake Nwogu over the course of two workshops in Brecon. The results of the collective learning will be factored into an evaluation and resulting case study led by NAPA (National Activity Providers Association).  

Hilary Woodhead, NAPA’s Executive Director said “This is an important project. NAPA has a commitment to promoting the benefits of arts and creativity in care provision, having seen the benefits for all involved. We are excited to support such an innovative approach to staff wellbeing and look forward to sharing the learning with the wider sector.” 

This pilot project will combine the expertise of all partners, with the focus on supporting Cartrefi Cymru staff, and will combine listening, sharing and movement leading to insight and learning.  

“NDCWales and Cartrefi Cymru share common values, especially the benefits they can bring to communities in Wales with the aim of enhancing and improving people’s lives,” explained Paul Kaynes, Chief Executive NDCWales. 

“Two of NDCWales’s priorities are social justice and supporting innovation in dance, which provides the basis of this partnership and the possibilities it can create.” 

This pilot project has been made possible by support received from Arts Council of Wales Arts, Health and Wellbeing National Lottery fund. The aim of this programme is to support partnerships from across the arts, health, social care and third sectors to provide high-quality creative projects that deliver health and wellbeing benefits for the people of Wales.