Service users hit the floor for danceathon fundraiser
Learning disability service users took to the floor for a sponsored disco danceathon to raise money for an awards event to mark next month’s Learning Disability Week.
It was ‘challenge complete’ when organisers counted down the seconds to two hours’ unbroken dancefloor action in the hall at Monyhull Church in Kings Norton – their target had been at least two dancers on the floor throwing shapes throughout to declare ‘mission accomplished’.
Healthcare assistant Olu Fombo took to the DJ decks to keep the requests coming and the adrenalin pumping, with BCHC colleagues joining in the dancefloor fun to help raise a grand total of £1,417, which BCHC Charity will use to fund an awards ceremony.
Learning disability division patient experience lead Louise Parton said: “Olu did a brilliant job keeping us all going, with great tunes and requests from the service users.
“It was hard going towards the end on a hot day, but we made sure we had plenty of refreshments and smashed the challenge of a full two hours on the floor and easily passed our original £1,000 target.
“Thank you to everyone who came along to support the event and keep things lively to the end with a particular shout-out to the energetic appearance of our community forensic team!”
Interim professional nurse lead Alison Whalley added: “The theme for Learning Disability Week this year is "do you see me?" - focusing on the importance of seeing, hearing, and valuing people with learning disabilities.
“So what better way to exemplify that than by giving our service users the chance to express themselves through showing off their moves to their favourite music?
“We’re very grateful to everyone who helped us smash our fundraising target which we can use to put on a really memorable awards event worthy of celebrating some of the amazing things our service users contribute and achieve.
“All offers of advice or support - venue suggestions, glitter balls, awards/trophies, red carpets - would be greatly appreciated!”
"What better way to exemplify the Learning DIsability Week theme 'do you see me?' than by giving our service users the chance to express themselves through showing off their moves to their favourite music?"