It is with a heavy heart that we must share some important news regarding the Love2Dance Programme, delivered by the Albany on behalf of Lewisham Council Housing services.

Unfortunately, due to funding constraints, Lewisham Council Housing will no longer be able to support this programme financially. Despite our best efforts, there is no longer a budget available to continue funding beyond November 2024.

Please know that we are doing everything we can to ensure that this is not the end of the road. We are actively seeking alternative sources of funding and exploring other potential options to keep the programme running. However, at this moment, we must prepare for the possibility that the programme will conclude in November if no new funding is secured.

We understand how much ‘Love2Dance’ means to so many of you, as it has provided a safe, creative, and empowering space for young people to develop both their dance skills and confidence. Over the past decade, we have witnessed countless moments of growth, friendship, and achievement, and we know the positive impact it has had on the lives of young people in Lewisham.

The partnership between the Albany and Lewisham Council has been unique and incredibly valuable. We are proud of everything we’ve accomplished together and grateful for your continued support and participation.

We will keep you updated on any new developments and potential next steps as we navigate through this challenging time. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for being a vital part of this journey, and for your understanding as we work to secure a future for the programme.

Kirsty Collander-Brown, Head of Engagement at the Albany, said: Love2Dance has provided free street dance classes to children and young people for over 10 years across the borough of Lewisham.  Many of those children have grown up with us and we have seen them go on to incredible things. Aaron’s passion, hard work and unending determination has, I know, changed the lives of so many children and young people in Lewisham.  We are so grateful to him, and also to Lewisham Council (formerly Lewisham Homes), for this incredible project, and partnership and all it has achieved.

 

Aaron Augustus, Founder of Love2Dance, said: I have loved delivering this programme over the past ten years, and have met so many fantastic young dancers, some of whom have moved on to dance professionally or to help teach the programme. I’m looking forward to our final showcase on 10 November, which will be a moment to celebrate all that we have achieved over many successful years.

 

Photo: Darcy Voller