Buckingham Palace has hosted a special series of dance workshops for people living with dementia. The programme was organised by Royal Collection Trust and the charity Arts for Dementia, with sessions designed and delivered by English National Ballet (ENB).
Fleur Derbyshire-Fox, Director of Engagement at ENB, stated that dance offers cognitive, physical, emotional, and social benefits. She added that being in Buckingham Palace holds significant resonance and is inspiring for participants.
Amy Stocker from the Royal Collection Trust noted that the palace's iconic status and connection to the monarchy can spark recognition and meaning for the older generation. Naseem Malik-Noor, a participant, expressed her enjoyment and appreciation for the accommodating staff and the palace's beauty.
The workshops coincided with World Alzheimer's Month, an annual event in September to raise awareness of dementia. Arts for Dementia offers regular, free programmes, which the charity states help people with dementia build confidence, maintain identity, create social connections, and experience a sense of purpose.