There were tears, cheers and unforgettable moments as the people we support in our Community Services in Lancashire took part in their very first dance competition in Blackpool.
The opportunity to compete came through Basically Cheer, a Burnley‑based not‑for‑profit health and wellbeing hub offering enriching dance and fitness activities. The team attend weekly sessions there, developing skills, confidence and friendships in a supportive and inclusive setting.
Coach and Managing Director, Lianne Bruce, approached the group about entering a large competition — and the answer was an immediate yes.
“Everyone was so excited about the chance,” said Team Leader Akila. “They had worked really hard rehearsing their routine and were determined to give it their all.”
The team attend rehearsals every Friday morning and added an extra Wednesday session in the lead-up to the event. A family showcase organised by Basically Cheer also gave them the opportunity to perform in front of an audience before the big day.
On the morning of the competition, the excitement was clear.
“Some of the ladies got ready together while we helped with hair styling and face glitter,” Akila shared. “The preparation was a big part of the experience — everyone was giddy with excitement.”
The group proudly wore UNITY t‑shirts they had chosen and bought themselves, adding Swanton to the back as a thank‑you for sponsoring their green and purple pom poms last year.
“Adding Swanton to the back of their shirts gave everyone a real sense of pride,” Akila explained. “It meant a lot to them to have that connection, especially knowing Swanton had supported them with their pom poms.”
As they stepped onto the stage, chants of “we are proud of you” echoed around the venue from the Basically Cheer family, with banners raised in support.
“The atmosphere was incredible,” said Akila. “It was so supportive and spine‑tingling. It was lovely to hear how recognised and included they were.”
Akila and fellow Team Leader Donna supported the group throughout rehearsals and also joined them on stage. They regularly attend practice sessions and rehearse routines back at the service, helping to build teamwork and self-belief.
“We practise with the ladies every week and help them feel comfortable performing in front of larger crowds,” Akila said. “We also listen to their ideas and include anything they want to add into the routine. It’s truly their performance.”
The team completed their routine with enthusiasm and huge smiles, clearly proud of what they had achieved.
Hearing the crowd’s support throughout was an emotional moment.
“It gave them such encouragement,” Akila said. “You could see it helping them stay focused and enjoy every second.”
Then came the announcement everyone had hoped for — first place out of four teams in their category.
“When it was announced, everyone jumped up cheering and chanting ‘we are proud of you’ again,” Akila recalled. “There were tears of joy from almost the whole Basically Cheer family.”
One person supported perfectly captured what the day meant, saying: “I never ever thought I would be able to do something like this.”
“This was the biggest event any of them had ever taken part in,” Akila added. “It was their first time performing in front of judges and such a large audience. It has boosted their confidence massively and helped them feel part of something bigger in the community.”
Although one member of the team was sadly unable to attend due to illness, she remained very much part of the journey and was greatly missed after putting so much effort into rehearsals.
“We’d also like to say a special thank you to Lianne Bruce for her dedication and weekly training,” Akila added. “This was her first SEN team at competition, and she was incredibly emotional and proud of what the team achieved. We’re also so grateful to Swanton’s Divisional Director, Lisa Warren, for sponsoring the purple and green pom poms — it meant so much to everyone to have that support behind them.”
Reflecting on the achievement, new Divisional Director for the region, Matthew Davis, shared: “What an amazing achievement by all involved. This is an amazing success to see and showcases the talent that everyone has that took part. The Swanton team are really proud of all those involved and in particular the work that went in by all to achieve such a great outcome.”
Registered Manager Louise also spoke about the significance of the day: “Watching the people we support step onto the stage for their very first competition with such confidence, teamwork and joy was incredibly special. Their dedication and achievement truly reflect Swanton Care’s PRIDE ethos — recognising potential, embracing diversity and demonstrating empathy, integrity and responsibility in everything we do. Every moment matters, and this was a moment that will stay with all of us for a long time.”
The commitment, teamwork and belief shown throughout this journey made it an extraordinary day. From rehearsals to standing on that stage, it demonstrated just how much can be achieved through encouragement and opportunity.
A heartfelt well done to all the people we support for their enthusiasm and determination, and to the staff, coaches and supporters who stood beside them every step of the way. This was more than a competition win — it was a celebration of confidence, inclusion and the power of working together.
