Published: Monday, 22nd September 2025
Cannock Chase Council is delighted to announce that Crystal Academy Aerial Arts & Dance will be offering a number of free dance spaces for children aged 3–14 years.
The initiative has been made possible through funding allocated from the Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s Community Safety Fund.
The Community Safety Fund is designed to support projects that reduce crime and anti-social behaviour by encouraging positive, community-focused activities. Certain initiatives, such as this, focus primarily on early intervention and prevention. By opening access to performing arts, the scheme will help combat social exclusion, support youth development, and provide new opportunities for children and families across the district.
Based in Hednesford, Crystal Academy is a multi-award-winning dance school, recently recognised as Community Leader of the Year at the 2025 Business Awards. The Academy has a proven commitment to delivering outreach and community-led programmes that build confidence, creativity, and resilience in young people.
Children taking up these funded spaces will be able to access expert tuition in acrobatics, aerial hoop, dance and theatre.
Councillor David Williams, Portfolio Leader for Community Wellbeing at Cannock Chase Council, said: “We are proud to be supporting Crystal Academy through this funding, which will provide children across our district with access to exciting and positive opportunities. “Engaging young people in activities like dance not only helps them develop confidence and skills but also promotes positive behaviour and addresses the root causes of anti-social behaviour. This is a fantastic example of how partnership working can make a real difference to local families.”
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams, said: “My Community Safety Fund is available to support projects and initiatives which focus on addressing local crime and community safety priorities.
“I’m pleased that the funding in Cannock means that children are able to try something new, meet friends and perhaps realise undiscovered talents whilst reducing anti-social behaviour.”
Applications are now open for these limited funded places. Families can find out more by visiting www.crystalacademy.net