the 2nd national safeguarding in dance survey
Since 2021, the University of Birmingham’s SPRINT Project, in collaboration with One Dance UK and the National Institute of Dance Medicine and Science, has been advancing safeguarding and abuse prevention in the dance sector. We conducted the first national survey on policies and practices, alongside interviews with organisational leads and dancers to capture diverse perspectives. Key findings revealed areas of strengths and improvement and provided a baseline to track progress. These insights informed a viewpoint published in the British Medical Journal Open Sport & Exercise Medicine calling for safer dance environments that are respectful, equitable and free from abuse for all dancers and anyone working in dance.
What is the 2nd National Safeguarding in Dance Survey?
​
The national survey on safeguarding in the UK dance sector is coming soon! This will be the second-ever national survey dedicated to understanding and improving safeguarding practices in dance. All UK dance organisations will soon be invited to take part, and your insights can help shape future policies and create a safer dance environment.
The online survey is now open! From the 1st May 2025 to 30th June 2025. To take part in the study, scan the QR code or press the button below from the first of May.
Study Team
Prof. Jennifer Cumming – j.cumming@bham.ac.uk
Dr. Mary Quinton – m.quinton@bham.ac.uk
Erin Sanchez- Erin.sanchez@onedanceuk.org
Michelle Dwarika- msd230@student.bham.ac.uk
Tasha Jordan Dewhurst- t.dewhurst@bham.ac.uk
Dr Georgia Bird- g.a.bird@bham.ac.uk
Participant information
We would like to invite you to take part in a research study, but before you decide, please read the following information to understand why the research is being done and what it would involve for you. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
What is this survey about?
This survey investigates the views, practices, policies, and challenges of UK dance organisations in promoting a safeguarding culture. The findings will directly inform policy recommendations to enhance safeguarding and abuse prevention in the sector.
Who can take part?
We are inviting individuals in leadership positions within any UK dance organisations, including head teachers, performance directors, and designated safeguarding leads to complete the online survey.
What will I have to do?
If you decide to take part, you will be invited to complete an online survey that asks about safeguarding policies, practices, and challenges within your organisation. The survey will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. You may also choose to provide your contact details if you are willing to be contacted for follow-up research or additional safeguarding initiatives.
Are my responses anonymous?
Yes, all responses are completely anonymous to ensure confidentiality.
Can I skip questions or withdraw?
You may skip any question you do not feel comfortable answering. However, because the survey is anonymous, once submitted, your responses cannot be withdrawn.
Why should I participate?
​
- Enhance Safety & Inclusion. Contribute to a safer and more inclusive dance sector.
- Drive Meaningful Change. Your input will help influence policies based on real needs.
- Shape Future Safeguarding Practices. Provide essential feedback to help improve safeguarding measures within dance environments.
What are the risks of taking part?
Some questions may cover sensitive topics related to safeguarding and abuse prevention. However, you can skip any question you do not wish to answer. We have included details of support resources at the end of this page for anyone who may find the content distressing.
How will my data be used?
The results will be used anonymously in reports, publications, and presentations. All data will be securely stored by the University of Birmingham for ten years, following data protection policies.
Who is leading the research?
This study is conducted by The SPRINT Project at the University of Birmingham, in collaboration with One Dance UK and the National Institute for Dance Medicine and Science.
Who do I contact in the event of a complaint?
If you have any concerns or wish to make a complaint about this research, please contact:
•University of Birmingham Research Ethics Team – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/environment-culture/research-integrity/research-ethics
•Principal Investigator: Prof. Jennifer Cumming – j.cumming@bham.ac.uk
•Data Protection Team at the University of Birmingham – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/university/leadership/governance/policies-regs/data-protection
•Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) – www.ico.org.uk/concerns
Sources of Support
If you find any of the survey content distressing or need support, the following resources are available:
•Own GP – Speak to your doctor for guidance and support.
•Birmingham Healthy Minds (NHS Mental Health Service) – Local support for Birmingham residents.
•Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust – bsmhft.nhs.uk
•Samaritans – 24/7 confidential support: Call 116 123, Email joe@samaritans.org, Visit www.samaritans.org
•Mind – Mental health support: Call 0300 123 3393, Text 86463, Visit www.mind.org.uk
•SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258 for immediate support.
•Working Together to Safeguard Children – Government guidance on child protection
•Statutory Guidance for Schools – Information on safeguarding children and young people in educational settings.
•Google Drive Resource – Additional document on mental health and safeguarding support.