Our newest Ambassador, Vincent Simone

Community Integrated Care is delighted to announce the appointment of Strictly Come Dancing star, Vincent Simone, as an ambassador.

Over the past 12 months, the dance legend has drawn on his professional expertise to host numerous accessible, virtual ‘Strictly Special’ dance classes for people who access care and support, on our charity’s award-winning inclusive activities website, www.What-To-Do.co.uk.

Through the ‘Strictly Special’ events, Vincent has shares advice, inspiration, and encouragement that creates a fun environment for people to get involved, making dreams come true for hundreds of dance fans across the UK.

Featuring on Strictly Come Dancing from 2006 until 2012 and finishing second with pop star Rachel Stevens in the sixth series, Vincent spoke about the joy he feels at becoming an ambassador.

Vincent said, “Working with Community Integrated Care has been a really special experience for me, and I’m delighted to now become an ambassador of the charity. It’s simply a joy to see all those people supported by the charity loving life and exploring dance as a form of expression.

“Sharing my passion and expertise whilst everyone is in the comfort of their own homes was fantastic. I see how much these events mean to everyone and now look forward to more opportunities to take part in further sessions in the future.”

Jenny Robinson, a ‘Strictly Superfan’ and regular dance participant has been ever-present at the Charity’s ‘What To Do’ special online events, proudly wearing her sparkly ‘Strictly outfits’, dazzling Vincent with her own moves and even awarding Vincent a Strictly ’10’ score mark.

Jenny talked about how much a difference being part of the ‘What To Do’ sessions has made to her life. “From accessible dance classes where I feel confident to express myself, to the numerous volunteering opportunities I’ve been apart of through Community Integrated Care, they have really helped improve my confidence”.

“I didn’t see many people over lockdown and often felt lonely and isolated. You could be having a bad day, but when you’re dancing or talking and meeting new people online in a safe environment, you can often forget about everything that’s going on, and it can lift your spirits. I love to listen to the music and just dance!”

John Hughes, Director of Communities and Partnerships at Community Integrated Care said, “We are absolutely delighted to have Vincent as one of Community Integrated Care’s ambassadors. We saw first-hand the impact that his ‘Strictly Special’ dance classes have had on the people that we support, and we are relishing the prospect of holding further engagements with Vincent in the future.