Forrester Court Care Home proudly participated in the Dance Westminster 2025 initiative, supported by Active Westminster and Step Change Studios, an award-winning dance company committed to making dance accessible to all. Held at Porchester Hall, the event celebrated movement, creativity, and inclusion, giving people with disabilities the chance to express themselves through dance, regardless of mobility, age, or experience.
Residents June Toma, Mariam Soliman, and Ana Laureiro represented Forrester Court, proving that dance has no barriers. Their journey—from the first workshop to the grand final—was transformative, strengthening community bonds and showcasing the healing power of the arts.
How It Began
On Friday, 5th September, Forrester Court hosted one of the official Dance Westminster heats, a session dedicated to older adults over 50. Residents participated in a fun, inclusive workshop led by professional facilitators from Step Change Studios.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter and encouragement. Many residents hadn’t danced in years, and for some, it was their first time dancing in later life. Facilitators adapted movements for each participant, ensuring full inclusion whether seated or standing.
The Path to the Finals
From this session, June Toma, Mariam Souliman, and Ana Laureiro were selected as finalists. Each was paired with a professional dancer and received one-to-one coaching.
- June, living with dementia and limited mobility, expressed herself through gentle movement and music.
- Mariam and Ana, each facing health challenges, embraced rehearsals with enthusiasm and pride.
Staff and families supported residents throughout—from costumes and transport to moral encouragement.
The Grand Final: A Day of Celebration
Held on Tuesday, 21st October at Porchester Hall, the final was a celebration of inclusion and artistry. Performances ranged from ballroom-inspired routines to vibrant Bollywood dances.
June Toma’s performance stood out. Dancing in her wheelchair with silk scarves, she conveyed emotion and storytelling. Her smile and confidence lit up the hall.
She won the People’s Choice Award, receiving a standing ovation. Her post-event words: “I feel alive again” captured the emotional impact.
Impact on Residents
- Confidence & Self-Esteem: Residents felt proud and purposeful.
- Emotional Wellbeing: Dance offered non-verbal expression, joy, and connection.
- Social Engagement: Rehearsals became social highlights.
- Community Inclusion: Residents actively contributed to a borough-wide cultural event.
Impact on the Home
- Empowered Staff & Residents: Inspired by creativity and courage.
- Cultural Expression: Diverse dance styles reflected the home’s inclusive ethos.
- Strengthened Relationships: Families felt pride and gratitude; community ties deepened.
Resident Reflections
- June Toma: “I can’t believe I won. I felt beautiful. I felt like me again.”
- Mariam Souliman: “It was wonderful to be part of something so joyful.”
- Ana Laureiro: “We all danced from the heart. It didn’t matter how much we could move.”
Conclusion
Dance Westminster 2025 was more than a competition—it was a celebration of ability, inclusion, and community. Forrester Court residents proved that dance transcends limitations. June’s win symbolizes resilience and the power of connection.
The event reaffirmed Forrester Court’s commitment to holistic, person-centred care, where joy and dignity are central. It showed that older adults, regardless of disability, can continue to inspire and shine.
