Background

Dance Action Zone Leeds was established in 2000 and funded by the Health Action Zone. Initially the project provided an alternative physical activity option for young women in deprived areas of South Leeds who were not engaging in more traditional sports or school PE lessons. Recognised as an innovation in Public Health by the Chief Medical Officer, DAZL became a Registered Charity in 2004 supported by Leeds PCT (Now known as NHS Leeds) and Leeds City Council. DAZL has grown significantly, expanding to develop new projects and initiatives in target areas, and the programme is part of the Childhood Obesity Strategy for Leeds with particular focus on the government's "Choosing Health; Choosing Activity" agenda and the Public Service Agreement (PSA) target to reduce children’s obesity levels.

In 2008 we were awarded "Highly Commended" at the Health Service Journal Awards. DAZL rents a office base from Health For All in Middleton, but works peripatetically in the communities it serves. In October 2011 we moved into new residence at the brand new Health for All Enterprise Centre which has an amazing dance studio space for DAZL to deliver some of its activity from.