Leeds-based manufacturer extends financial support to help children follow dancing dream

In addition to already funding over 100 scholarships, Morley Glass has confirmed that it will back a further 24 students this year. Freedom 2 Dance director Michelle Dickinson said will enable the group to reach out to children who may otherwise be unable to access additional dance training to support their development.

“We’ve seen the far-reaching benefits that the scholarships bring to children so it’s fantastic to be able to continue them in 2023,” said Ms Dickinson.

“The children benefit in particular by developing new friendships and confidence, which boosts their social skills and can transform their wellbeing and mental health. In addition, our teachers have clearly seen the development of interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication and improved self-esteem, which will go on to serve them throughout their personal and working lives.”

Freedom 2 Dance was introduced to Morley Glass managing director Ian Short after he signed up to a Strictly Come Dancing style challenge to raise money for charity.

Mr Short said: “We are delighted to be able to support Freedom 2 Dance and look forward to seeing this year’s students build their ability and flourish. Over the past four years we’ve seen the value of Freedom 2 Dance’s work in breaking down the barriers that often prevent children taking up dancing and the value of this cannot be understated given how beneficial dance can be to our physical and mental health overall.”

Freedom 2 Dance scholarships are provided in two categories depending on the stage that dancers are at – level 1 is ‘Gifted & Talented’ and level 2 is for children seeking to try something new. The scholarships are open to any child who is already be a part of Freedom 2 Dance community and those selected for a scholarship benefit from either one private lessons per month or a 40-minute class every week.