DanceSport can be inspiring,
demanding and deeply formative,
mentally, physically and emotionally.
About Dance Sport Trust
Dance Sport Trust was founded by Nicole Cutler, Andrew Cuerden and Kate Basile, each bringing different experiences of competitive DanceSport, teaching, coaching, performance, studio life and supporting dancers and families.
The idea developed from concerns and conversations within the dance community about the pressures people can experience, the support that may be needed along the way, and how difficult it can sometimes be to find clear guidance or know where to turn for appropriate support.
We each came to the Trust by a different route. Over time, those experiences began to come together around a shared wish to create a thoughtful, independent space for useful information, practical resources and conversations that reflect the realities of the dance community. We also wanted to make room for people across the community to share their own experiences, knowledge and perspectives.
You can read more about our individual journeys and how they gradually came together to form Dance Sport Trust.
You can also watch or listen to our founders’ conversation, where Nicole, Andrew and Kate share more about why Dance Sport Trust was created, the experiences that shaped it and what we hope it can offer the dance community.
Our Mission & Role Today
OUR MISSION
Supporting healthier, safer and more sustainable participation
Our mission is to support healthier, safer and more sustainable participation in DanceSport through clear guidance, educational resources and responsible signposting.
We aim to help dancers, families, teachers, coaches, adjudicators and professionals navigate the demands of training, performance and development with greater care, clarity and responsibility.
OUR VISION
Our vision is a DanceSport community where development, wellbeing, welfare and long-term participation are understood as part of the same wider conversation.
As the Trust evolves, we hope to grow through thoughtful partnerships, accessible resources and carefully developed initiatives that support the long-term health of the community.
OUR ROLE TODAY
At this early stage, Dance Sport Trust is focused on sharing clear information, practical guidance and trusted signposting for the DanceSport community.
Our work includes helping people understand where to begin when support is needed, encouraging age-appropriate and sustainable participation, raising awareness of safeguarding responsibilities, and helping people recognise when appropriate professional or statutory support may be needed.
WHAT DANCE SPORT TRUST DOES NOT PROVIDE
We offer general guidance, educational resources and signposting. We cannot offer counselling, therapy, clinical assessments, crisis support, safeguarding investigations, legal advice or involvement in individual disputes. These matters are best handled by qualified professionals, statutory services, appropriate governing bodies and specialist organisations. If you need urgent help, please visit our Crisis Support page.
LOOKING AHEAD
Developing carefully with the community
As the Trust grows, our work will develop carefully in response to the needs of the community, while our commitment to responsible, careful guidance remains at the heart of what we do.