Dancing with Dementia

Dancing with Dementia (DWD) was founded in 2016 by Salford resident, Lesley Fisher, following her sister Jean's dementia diagnosis. DWD is a social dance and entertainment group for people living with dementia, their family, friends, and carers. The group provides a safe, welcoming place where people living with dementia can participate in social activities with family and friends, using music and dance as tools to improve well-being. DWD does tremendous work to tackle the loneliness and isolation that people living with dementia and their families can experience.

The group is run by five trustees, Lesley Fisher, Anne Bellis, Jean Brock, Jeanette Cutt and Elaine Fox, alongside a team of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to provide people with the opportunity to socialise, take part in enjoyable and enriching activities, and build a support network. Through the social connections made at the group, people can share their own stories about living with dementia, (whether as a sufferer or as a family member or friend) and in turn find support from others who are facing similar challenges. The group continually transforms lives through joy, empowerment and human connection. From weekly dance sessions and monthly lunches to meaningful day trips, and their work with local care homes, DWD is a lifeline for people living with dementia and their carers too.

The group have been recognised for their amazing work, receiving the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest accolade a voluntary group can receive in the UK, Community Group of the Year at the 2023 Spirit of Salford Community Awards, and most recently the group won Most-Loved Community Group in the 2025 I Heart Manchester Awards.

DWD is a tremendous example of an organisation who truly cares about people and who work tirelessly to ensure those living with, or who are impacted by dementia can live happy, enriched lives. Find out more about the group and the fantastic work they do on the Dancing With Dementia website.

Photo credits: Dancing with Dementia