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Short Breaks – Respite for Children & Young People

a woman kneels on one leg, her hands infront of her face, she has her head bowed in dance. She wears a yellow cardigan and blue jumpsuit,, her haid is short and grey. Behond her on the dance studio wall is a graffitti of a pride coloured bird wings

Written by

Amanda

At IMPACD CIC, we are dedicated to supporting children with additional needs and their families through our specialized respite care and short break sessions. Over the past six months, our Saturday morning sessions have become a lifeline for many, offering not only enriching activities for children but also a much-needed break for parents and caregivers.

Our program is designed to provide a safe, welcoming environment where children can engage in sensory play, dance, and movement, all tailored to their individual needs. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from professionals, with many describing our sessions as “outstanding.”

Why Choose Our Respite Care?

  • Inclusive and Enriching Activities: We believe every child deserves the chance to explore and grow. Our groundbreaking Inclusive Movement Prompt (IMP) tool helps children of all abilities discover new movements, enhancing their physical development and coordination.
  • Social Skills Development: Each session offers opportunities for children to build essential social skills by interacting with peers and team members. Through structured yet fun activities, children learn teamwork and communication in an environment where they can thrive.
  • Independence Building: Our supportive staff encourages children to gain confidence away from their caregivers. Many parents have shared heartwarming stories of their child’s newfound independence, with some, like Ali, feeling completely comfortable and secure with our team.
  • Parental Respite: We know how rare it can be for parents and caregivers to have time to themselves. Our sessions provide that precious break, giving you a few hours to relax, complete errands, or simply recharge.

What Makes Our Sessions Unique?

Our facilities are fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly spaces and sensory-safe areas. We provide ear defenders, sensory regulation zones, and quiet breakout areas to ensure every child feels comfortable. Families can rest assured that our team is highly qualified and trained to handle complex needs, including medication administration, epilepsy care, and more.

We welcome all children, including those with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), provided they pose no threat to others. We’re here to support a diverse range of needs and work closely with families to ensure each child gets the care and attention they deserve.

Qualified, Caring Staff You Can Trust

Our team brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every session. Our staff are prepared to support your child’s journey with qualifications ranging from a Level 6 Diploma in Dance Teaching & Learning to NVQ Level 4 in Social Care & Health. We also hold certifications in safeguarding, behaviour management, autism understanding, and essential life support, ensuring every child is in safe and capable hands.

Join Us for a Taster Session

We offer taster sessions for new families to experience our program firsthand. This is a great opportunity to see how your child responds to our activities and environment. Whether your child requires high or low support, our staff is here to assist with personal care, medication needs, and more.

Children and young people aged 8 to 21 are welcome, and private carers or family members are encouraged to participate if desired. We aim to provide a nurturing environment where every child can grow, explore, and enjoy a sense of freedom.

For more information or to schedule a taster session, please contact us. We look forward to welcoming you and supporting your child’s path to greater independence and well-being. At IMPACD CIC, we’re committed to making a difference—one Saturday morning at a time.
A middle-aged slender female session leader with short dark hair, wearing a blue jumpsuit and yellow cardigan, eyes closed and serene-looking, moves her arms pensively. Beautiful wings which adorn the back wall of the IMPACD studio seem to come out of her back like a bird in flight.

amanda accessible community dance

Amanda is the Director of IMPACD C.I.C & Todo Latino Dance Co.Ltd. She loves helping people express themselves, improve their fitness and make new connections through dance.

Amanda Hose-Hawley is a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions to the field of dance teaching and learning. With an unwavering passion for inclusivity and accessibility, she has dedicated herself to revolutionizing how people approach the Laban method of actions and dynamics through her groundbreaking work as the Director of IMPCAD CIC.

Amanda’s journey began with a strong foundation in dance education. She distinguished herself by graduating with Distinction from Trinity Laban in 2022, where she earned a Level 6 diploma in dance teaching and learning. Her time at Trinity Laban not only honed her technical skills but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the transformative power of dance.

In 2023, Amanda embarked on a research residency at FABRIC, formerly known as dance4. This opportunity allowed her to collaborate closely with specialist dance leaders who shared her vision of inclusivity. Together, they set out to develop a groundbreaking movement prompt tool called IMP (Inclusive Movement Prompt). IMP aims to make the Laban method of actions and dynamics accessible to all bodies, regardless of their previous experience or how they present themselves.

Amanda completed the research residency through her diligent efforts, leaving an indelible mark on the dance community. IMP not only opens doors for individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities but also shatters barriers that previously limited participation in the Laban method. Her innovative tool empowers dancers of all levels to engage with and excel in the art of movement.

As the Director of IMPCAD CIC, Amanda continues to drive positive change in the field of community dance. Under her leadership, IMPCAD CIC has become a pioneering organisation that promotes inclusivity and accessibility in dance. Amanda’s unwavering commitment to creating spaces where all bodies can thrive has been instrumental in shaping the future of dance teaching and learning.

In addition to her professional achievements, Amanda is known for her warm and approachable nature. She has a gift for connecting with others and inspiring them to embrace their unique abilities. Her infectious enthusiasm and genuine care for the well-being of her students and colleagues make her a beloved figure in the dance community.

Amanda Hose-Hawley’s journey exemplifies the power of dedication, innovation, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of dance. Her tireless efforts to make the Laban method of actions and dynamics inclusive and accessible to all bodies serve as an inspiration to dancers and educators around the world. With her continued contributions, Amanda is reshaping the landscape of dance education and paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future.