An emerging circus organisation dedicated to making creative movement activities accessible to people with additional needs is planning its next stage of growth following a successful launch earlier this year.
Founded in February by Cindy Downey and Rosa Iddon Cooper, Circable offers travelling circus workshops, performances and wellbeing-focused sessions. The programmes are designed to accommodate a broad range of participants, including children and adults with special educational needs and disabilities.
As part of its expansion plans, the company hopes to acquire a portable aerial rig that can be used by wheelchair users and individuals with restricted mobility. A GoFundMe appeal has been launched with a fundraising target of £5,000 to support the purchase.
The business emerged after both founders decided to take new directions in their careers. Friends for more than two decades, they say their shared experiences played a key role in developing the company’s inclusive approach.
Before launching Circable, Downey worked as a paramedic for around 20 years. After the passing of her father, she stepped away from the profession and pursued her interest in performance, undertaking circus training to gain specialist skills.
At the same time, Iddon Cooper was employed in a care sector management role. Although she valued working directly with service users and families, she became increasingly frustrated by the level of administrative responsibility involved.
Drawing on their backgrounds in performance, education and care, the pair established Circable with a mission centred on creativity, movement and wellbeing.
The organisation now provides workshops and experiences in schools, community venues, care settings and private functions, adapting activities to suit a variety of physical and cognitive abilities.
Downey said ensuring accessibility remains a priority as the company develops.
“We want the freedom to fly to be available to everyone who attends our sessions,” she said. “The portable rig would allow people with mobility issues, including wheelchair users, to take part in activities that are often not accessible to them.
“We are currently trying to raise £5,000 to make that possible and expand what we can offer.”
According to the founders, there is growing interest in inclusive activities that encourage physical movement, social engagement and confidence building, particularly among children and young people who may not participate in mainstream sports or arts programmes.
Iddon Cooper said taking services directly into communities helps reduce barriers to participation.
“Circable was created for everyone and mobility is a major part of that,” she said. “We want people to be able to access the experience without limitations, regardless of where they are or the support they require.
“Our ethos has always been built around wellbeing and movement, particularly for children and individuals who may not normally have access to these kinds of activities.”
Since launching, the company has started developing partnerships with schools, community groups and organisations that support people with additional needs across the area.
Future objectives include delivering more workshops, extending outreach activities and investing in further accessible equipment to meet increasing demand.
The fundraising campaign is set to continue over the coming months as Circable expands its schedule of events and community programmes.
Additional information about Circable, its upcoming activities and fundraising efforts is available through the organisation’s website and social media pages.