The Afrocats were back on form as we kickstarted our free blood pressure checks and cultural dance sessions for women in North Manchester.
With support from Edel and Esha on the Afrocats team, we made sure that participants were aware of their blood pressure levels, and tracked it where possible to see if there has been any difference since we last met.
Our work breaks down barriers and distrust of the healthcare system and processes for marginalised communities, and Edel shares her thoughts on the first session of the new year on this project.
Edel said:
‘It’s good to be back! I recognise some faces, and some are brand new – and some participants haven’t had a blood pressure check for a while, so it’s good that we are able to offer them this service for free.
She added:
‘Alongside our blood pressure checks, we will also be introducing sessions on smoking cessation, and MMR and HPV vaccinations, and HPV, and getting NHS support to check on ongoing issues in marginalised communities.’
Edel checked everyone’s blood pressure, including dedicated dance practitioner Nessa – see below for pictures.
Of course, everyone gets to have fun and let loose during intercultural dance element, and Nessa, who has her roots in Equatorial Guinea, said:
‘I want them to understand the dynamic of the session and feel comfortable with dance and movement, enjoying each class as part of a community so they can feel as safe and happy as they would at a spa day.'
Nessa led everyone through a warmup, then an energetic Afrobeats routine followed by a freestyle session, and finally a cooldown – click on the clips below to see how it went.
Everyone raised the roof with their moves, and participants with high blood pressure were encouraged to attend the next session to track this and let off more steam with a good boogie to more inclusive music and dance.
See you next time – and remember to keep your heart healthy!
To find out more about our programmes supporting marginalised communities across Manchester, visit the ‘Our Work’ page.
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