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What we are all about

At the British DanceSport Association, we believe dance should be a level playing field — open, honest, and inspiring for all.

Our commitment to transparency and fairness guides everything we do, from setting clear standards to supporting dancers at every stage of their journey. We're here to break down barriers, champion opportunity, and create a future where every dancer — in every style — can rise with confidence, compete with pride, and belong without question.

Young girl tap dancing

How we do things

We champion a democratic, transparent approach to governance, where every dancer’s voice matters. Through open dialogue, fair representation, and community consultation, we ensure that dance sport evolves with the people at its heart.

Safety, wellbeing, and respectful floor craft are at the core of our values. From safeguarding young dancers to promoting best practices for adults and professionals, we create an environment where everyone can thrive — both on and off the dance floor.

As an independent governing body, we are proudly impartial. We are not influenced by legacy systems or outdated hierarchies. Instead, we are driven by fairness, integrity, and a deep belief in every dancer’s right to participate freely and fully.

Inclusivity isn’t a buzzword — it’s a promise. Whether you're a grassroots beginner, a university society member, a recreational dancer, or competing at the highest international level, the BDSA is your home. We actively welcome and support dancers of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.

This is how we do things at the BDSA: with purpose, passion, and people at the centre.

Our Mission

To be the governing body to unify the dance community, establish a fair and transparent regulatory framework, and ensure every dancer — from grassroots to elite — has access to the support, structure, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Our Vision

To achieve an inclusive dance society where all people can excel through dance sport and reach their full potential. ​

Our Values

Truth & Transparency

We provide clear rules and guidance across all forms of dance sport, ensuring every dancer can compete on equal terms — with fairness, transparency, and integrity at the heart of every performance.

Safeguarding Measures

Safety and good floor craft are our top priorities. We are committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of all dancers, from children to adults.

Diversity & Inclusion

Our belief in integrity and freedom to dance extends to the principle of being all-inclusive. We're committed to diversity and inclusion in dance sport.

Democracy in DanceSport

We aim to give every dancer a voice. Our democratic approach ensures fair representation and an open platform for dialogue and debate within the dance sport community.

Independent & Unbiased

As an independent governing body, we act without bias, ensuring all dancers are treated fairly.

Clubs & Societies Welcome

Whether you're a club dancer or part of a university society, there's a space for you under the BDSA umbrella.

Team

Meet the Board

Marcus Hilton

Marcus
Hilton MBE

President

Neil Harrison

Neil
Harrison

CEO

Dr Andy Harvey

Dr Andy
Harvey

Diversity Officer

Michele Verroken

Michele
Verroken

Integrity Officer

Karen Hilton

Karen
H
ilton MBE

Vice President

Peter Nash

Peter
Nash

Director Sport & Development

Amanda Dokman

Amanda
Dokman

Non Executive Ambassador

Kai Widdrington

Kai  Widdrington

Director

Genevieve Gordon-Thomson_edited_edited.j

Genevieve
Gordon-Thomson

Chair

Stuart McInnes

Stuart
McInnes MBE

Director Governance

Bryan Watson

Bryan
Watson

Non Executive Ambassador

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