OUR STORY

Founded in 2008, Nuvo Wellbeing is a multi award-winning social enterprise supporting thousands of people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Recognised nationally and internationally, our work drives positive behaviour change, boosts physical activity, and improves health and wellbeing. We proudly collaborate with partners including Sport England, the NHS, Arts Council, Local Authorities, and Public Health.

For over 17 years, Nuvo Wellbeing has been inspiring people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds across the North East, and beyond, through fun, affordable, and innovative dance and wellbeing programmes.

Founded by Bethany Ainsley and proudly endorsed by our Global Patron, Michael Flatley, Nuvo has grown year on year, delivering local community sessions to international online training, creating experiences that are engaging, effective, and accessible to everyone.

We’re Passionate About Innovation

At Nuvo Wellbeing, people and innovation come first. We directly employ all our staff, creating a highly trained, local team who understand the communities we serve. Our volunteer board brings expert guidance and support.

We listen to communities, build strong partnerships, and track our impact with the latest tools. Innovation drives everything we do. Together with our partners, we create exciting, effective ways for people of all ages and abilities to move more, feel better, and stay active.

To find out how you can partner with us or sponsor a programme click here.

Meet the Team

Meet the people at the heart of Nuvo Wellbeing, the team driving our impact across the region. Our passionate professionals come from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique skills, expertise, and dedication. From our skilled instructors leading dynamic dance and fitness classes to our supportive staff ensuring every participant feels valued, every team member plays a vital role in promoting health, wellbeing, and inclusivity.

Michael Flatley

Global Patron

Michael Flatley

Michael Flatley first stepped onto the world stage 30 years ago in Lord of the Dance; a performance he created that caught the attention of millions around the world. Since then, his name and live shows have become synonymous with spectacular artistry and grand scale productions that have mesmerised audiences around the globe. 

He has created, directed and produced several successful shows and has performed at iconic locations. With his conviction that “nothing is impossible” Michael Flatley has broken many world
records throughout his career.

Michael Flatley has been recognised by many establishments and received numerous awards for his contribution to the entertainment industry and the promotion and enrichment of the arts. His philanthropy extends across Europe and the Americas in a variety of sectors from the arts to sports, medical research, children’s charities and supporting older adults.

His determination and drive to succeed against the odds have been an inspiration to people from all walks of life and has encouraged many to follow their dreams.

Bethany

Founder & Chair

Bethany

Bethany’s education and professional experience have shaped her commitment to improving wellbeing through movement, innovation, technology, and storytelling. With a First Class Honours degree in Contemporary Dance, she went on to teach and perform professionally across TV, Bollywood, and motion capture film, gaining first-hand insight into the impact of movement on physical and mental wellbeing. She further developed this through a PGCE and MA in Professional Dance (Community and Health), and more recently, an MBA from Newcastle University.

In 2008, just six months after graduating, Bethany founded Nuvo Wellbeing to address a lack of suitable physical activity provision. She is now Founder & Creative Director, and has since expanded this mission through innovation and technology as the founder of OptiMe and Beacon – digital platforms designed to support wellbeing at scale, alongside her work as a documentary producer on Invisible Prison. Her awards and recognition include the David Goldman Prize for Innovation, Susan Dobson Business Woman of the Year, and IoD Director of the Year. 

Natalie

Chief Operating Officer

Natalie

Natalie’s connection to Nuvo Wellbeing dates back to 2008, when she first attended dance sessions led by our organisation’s founder and witnessed its journey from inception to a thriving social enterprise.

She graduated from Newcastle University in 2017 with a BA in Classical Studies and began working with Nuvo shortly after. Since then, Natalie has continued to develop her expertise, achieving a Diploma in Mindfulness, a Diploma in Laughter Therapy, and a Certificate in Education and Training. She has also worked as a Visiting Researcher at Newcastle University, using research to inform the design and delivery of Nuvo Wellbeing’s programmes.

Natalie is now the Chief Operating Officer of Nuvo Wellbeing and ActivCare Training, where she oversees operations, projects, events, and organisational growth.

She is passionate about empowering communities through accessible wellbeing programmes and has been recognised as a ‘Change Maker’ in the Northern Power Women Future List. She has also been highly commended at the Newcastle University Alumni Awards for her civic and social impact.

Millie

Talent Development Lead

Millie

Millie has been connected to Nuvo Wellbeing since the age of 7, beginning her journey in community dance sessions. These early experiences sparked a lasting passion for movement, wellbeing, and community.

In 2022, she achieved a Level 3 qualification in Sport alongside a Level 2 Exercise to Music qualification, enabling her to begin delivering dance and fitness sessions within the community.

Millie joined Nuvo Wellbeing full-time as a Business Administration Apprentice, successfully completing her apprenticeship in 2024. She then progressed into a Project Administrator role before stepping into her current position as Talent Development Lead.

In this role, Millie supports the growth and development of both Nuvo’s programmes and the people within them. She is passionate about contributing to the organisation’s mission and continues to develop her skills as part of a team dedicated to building a strong, inclusive, and ever-growing community.

Kate

Dance & Fitness Instructor

Kate

I’m originally from Manchester and trained at the Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama (MADD), graduating in 2020. I’ve performed professionally in pantomimes and musicals, including Crossroads Pantomime of Cinderella, AJ Productions’ Snow White & Dick Whittington, and most recently as Tinkerbell in Peter Pan at Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre. I began teaching in early 2022 and have loved every moment. I deliver classes in Hartlepool and the Tees Valley, and I love being part of the Nuvo Wellbeing team, sharing my knowledge and passion for dance and fitness.

Grace

Dance & Fitness Instructor

Grace

I’m from Hartlepool and work as a professional Musical Theatre performer, dance and musical theatre instructor, and Level 3 Personal Trainer. My background spans performance and teaching across a variety of styles, and I’m passionate about helping people build confidence, fitness, and creativity through movement. I deliver classes across Hartlepool and East Durham and love being part of the Nuvo Wellbeing team, where I can share my skills, experience, and enthusiasm with the local community.

Chloe

Dance & Fitness Instructor

Chloe

Originally from the North East, Chloe Hunwick began her dance training at her mum’s esteemed dance school, Stagestruck Dance Academy, where her passion for performance was nurtured from an early age. She later went on to earn a Diploma in Musical Theatre from  Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama (MADD). After graduating during the challenges of the 2020 lockdown, Chloe discovered a deep love for teaching and finding her true calling in the studio environment she had always considered home. Though in 2022, Chloe moved to Paris, France to join Disneyland Paris where she spent 3 years performing in parades and shows such as Disney Junior Dream Factory and Mickey and the Magician. Now back in the UK, Chloe is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of dancers. With extensive experience across a range of dance styles and age groups, she brings energy, discipline and fun to every class she teaches. 

Carolyn

Dance & Fitness Instructor

Carolyn

I’m passionate about drama, dance, and performance, and I love using them to help young people build confidence and creativity. I hold a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts from Newcastle College and a Drama & Performance degree from Northumbria University, and I have professional acting experience on stage and screen (BBC, ITV, Talltree Productions). I deliver classes across Newcastle, Sunderland, and East Durham, and every session is a chance to see the positive impact on the community. Working in the Nuvo Wellbeing team is a joy because I get to share my love of the arts while helping people connect and grow.

Kate

Dance & Fitness Instructor

Kate

My passion for dance started at a young age, training at Weguline School of Russian Ballet, Hammond Ballet School in Chester, and finally ALRA. I’ve performed professionally in cruise ships, touring shows, summer seasons, and abroad.

After many years on stage, I decided to share my experience with students. I’ve been a dance and performing arts teacher for over 25 years, and I’m also a qualified fitness instructor, coaching aqua aerobics, body tone, and chair aerobics. I deliver Nuvo Wellbeing classes in South and West Durham, and I love helping people get fitter while having fun.

Heidi

Dance and Fitness Instructor

Heidi

I’m originally from North Carolina, USA, and moved to England in 2014. I trained in ballroom and musical theatre dance as part of my Musical Theatre degree, and continued my love of movement through swing and salsa dancing while completing my PhD in Archaeology. In 2024, I became a licensed Zumba instructor, bringing together my passion for dance, fitness, and community wellbeing.

I began teaching with Nuvo in 2025 and deliver classes across the Tees Valley, I am thrilled to be part of such a meaningful mission, helping to create a happier and healthier community through dance and exercise.

Catherine

Nutritionist & Tutor

Catherine

I’m a qualified nutritionist, tutor, and chef with over 30 years of experience in the food industry. I trained as a chef in hospital kitchens, ran a pub restaurant in London, and later managed a school kitchen in the North East. I also hold a BSc in Food Science and Nutrition from Northumbria University and a PGCE from Sunderland University.

As part of the Nuvo Wellbeing team, I deliver practical healthy eating sessions in the community, helping people learn how to make healthy lifestyle choices and cook on a budget. I love sharing my knowledge and seeing the positive impact on people’s lives.

Lesley

Non-Executive Director

Lesley

After being diagnosed with an underactive thyroid at 25, I discovered the importance of staying active for both mental and physical wellbeing. I worked in the health and wellness industry for over 10 years before supporting businesses in promoting wellbeing.

As a Non-Executive Director at Nuvo Wellbeing, I help guide the organisation’s strategy and community initiatives, with a focus on promoting activity and wellness. I’m passionate about inspiring people to stay active, sharing how movement has helped me through health challenges and continues to play a vital role in my life today.

Adele

Chair & Non-Executive Director

Adele

Appointed Chair and Non-Executive Director of Nuvo Wellbeing in 2026, I bring a background in creative leadership and purpose-led work, with over 15 years’ experience supporting organisations and founders to grow in a way that balances vision, delivery and long-term impact.

I’m the Creative Director at Venture Stream and Ada + Grace, where I work with organisations to build meaningful, values-driven brands. Alongside this, I founded and created Positive Baby & Beyond, a children’s affirmation book designed to support positive mental health and wellbeing from the earliest years.

Community, care, and impact sit at the heart of everything I do. As Chair, I’m passionate about supporting Nuvo Wellbeing’s team through positive governance and thoughtful leadership, helping ensure the organisation continues to thrive.

Get Involved

Whether you want to join a class, volunteer, or partner with us, there’s a way to be part of the Nuvo community.

Case Studies: Our Impact on our Community and their Wellbeing

At Nuvo Wellbeing we continually collect feedback and case studies from the people who attend our classes and projects to help us develop and improve our services year after year, and meet your community and health needs.

Freda

I started Zumba gold classes with Nuvo in August 2014. After losing my husband, I felt I needed to get back on track and keep myself active and positive. I saw…
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Gillian

I started the Community Wellness project over 1 year ago, attending 1 bootcamp session a week every Monday night.  At first I wasn’t sure if it was for me. I…
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Pam

Pam, aged 77 years old, and her husband Bert, attend the Dementia Café where they were first introduced to Nuvo Wellbeing’s session. Bert takes Pam along to the Dementia Café as he had…
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Dawn

Dawn, aged 85, has been attending Nuvo Wellbeing’s class for nearly 1 year. Dawn lives on her own and suffers from mobility issues as well as Dementia. Her daughter kindly plans out…
Read more
Company

Nuvo Wellbeing, Flok Co-working Space, 20 - 26 Albert Rd, Middlesbrough
TS1 1PR

info@nuvowellbeing.com

01642 566511

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