UKEDC’s mission is to support, encourage and grow equality dancing, and work towards a climate in partner dancing where people can express themselves regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnic origin, religion, marital status, age, nationality, language or disability.

Originally founded in 2006 as the United Kingdom Same-Sex Dance Council, the United Kingdom Dance Council is the umbrella organisation for equality dancing in the United Kingdom. Equality dancing has its origins in the same-sex partner dancing scene, which developed in the LGBTQIA+ community in response to the exclusion of same-sex and gender non-conforming dance couples from mainstream events. Broadly speaking, equality dancing means that a person can dance with whoever they like, and in whichever role (leader or follower) they like, regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Our individual members are primarily social and competitive ballroom and latin dancers who participate in equality dance events. Our associate members are largely dance schools, dance teachers and dance event organisers who explicitly cater to equality dancers.

The UKEDC acts as a resource for existing and potential partner dancers from the LGBT+ community. We also hold an annual gala ball including presenting awards for contributions to equality dancing.

1. All LGBT+ Communities
2. Intersex/Variations in Sex Characteristics (VSC)
3. Men
4. People over 50
5. Women