British DanceSport Association Joins Northern Ireland Sports Forum
The Northern Ireland Sports Forum is proud to welcome the British DanceSport Association (BDSA) as its newest member, heralding an exciting development for dance sport in Northern Ireland. The addition of BDSA to the Forum strengthens a shared commitment to inclusivity, athletic development, and community engagement across the sporting sector.
The BDSA was established to provide a unified and progressive voice for dance sport across the British Isles. At its core, the Association is dedicated to promoting and developing dance at all levels—from grassroots participation to elite competition. It supports athletes, coaches, and officials through structured programmes, while also advocating for the recognition and integrity of dance sport both nationally and internationally. With a strong focus on youth engagement, inclusivity, and transparent governance, the BDSA has quickly positioned itself as a forward-thinking and impactful organisation.
Over the past year, the BDSA has laid impressive foundations. It has been formally recognised as a governing body and has created a representative board that reflects its values of integrity and transparency, comprising both elected dance sport members and appointed independent professionals. The Association’s inaugural national championships were met with enthusiasm, setting the stage for an expanded calendar of events in the coming year. Alongside this, the BDSA has planned a range of workshops and training opportunities aimed at upskilling coaches and supporting dancer development.
One of the BDSA’s most notable achievements has been its leadership in safeguarding. The launch of the Safer DanceSport campaign provided members with safeguarding packs and clear protocols, and the Association has recently partnered with organisations such as the British Dance Council to implement a data-sharing agreement designed to protect participants. Moreover, the BDSA successfully lobbied for dance teachers to be included under the Disclosure and Barring Service’s enhanced checks—a major milestone for safety in the sport.
In practical terms, the BDSA has implemented policies aligned with the Code of Good Governance and secured comprehensive insurance coverage for its members. It has also been proactive in building alliances with sporting bodies both in the UK and internationally, recognising the importance of collaboration in growing the sport from grassroots to global stages.
Looking ahead, the BDSA is focused on expanding regional and national events, securing funding and sponsorship, and establishing a clear athlete pathway that promotes progression based on talent and commitment. It also aims to develop a robust officiating and judging programme to ensure transparency and fairness in competition.
The decision to join the NI Sports Forum was a natural one. As a spokesperson for the BDSA stated, “The values of the NI Sports Forum and the BDSA are aligned. We believe that by joining forces, we can more effectively pursue our shared goals and make a lasting impact within the Northern Ireland sporting community.”
The BDSA invites members, partners, and the wider community to follow their journey via social media and their website, where updates on events, campaigns, and opportunities are shared regularly.
· Instagram: @british_dancesport_assoc
· Facebook: British DanceSport Association
· LinkedIn: British DanceSport Association
· X (Twitter): @BDSAssociation · Website: www.bdsassociation.com
With continued dedication, the British DanceSport Association is committed to raising the profile of dance sport and inspiring a new generation of dancers and athletes across Northern Ireland.