British Cycling and Cycle Projects: Sharing the love of cycling
Published 29 June 2011
British Cycling has developed a new relationship with accessible cycling charity Cycling Projects and marked it by launching some all-inclusive Sky Ride Local Rides. The national governing body and the charity will work closely together on specific projects to develop a model for an inclusive cycle club, and for inclusive recreational cycling programmes.
Cycling Projects has been active in bringing cycling into many people's lives since it was registered as a charity in 1991. Its expertise includes cycling-related training, cycle for health schemes, working with excluded groups and bringing cycling to disabled people.
British Cycling is supporting Cycling Projects in the development of an inclusive cycle club in Lancaster which will inform future club development. The Cycling Projects team is also supporting British Cycling and Sky as it refines its flagship Sky Ride programme of mass participation and local recreational cycle rides. This summer there will be four all-inclusive Sky Ride Local events across Preston and Blackpool, seeking to encourage people with disabilities to get involved with cycling and enjoy Sky Ride events with their family and friends. The aim is for these rides to be completely inclusive, and for able-bodied and disabled people to take part together. There are limited places available online in the first instance on the following rides:
Blackpool:
24th July – Pedal the Promenade
Preston:
If you'd like to take part in any of these rides and have a specific enquiries or require access to adapted bikes, contact David Pownall on 01925 234213.
Cycling Projects showcased its work at several of the Sky Ride city events in 2010 and will advise British Cycling and Sky on how to encourage more people with disabilities to take part in 2011.
Stewart Kellett, Director, Recreation and Partnerships British Cycling said ‘British Cycling shares Cycling Projects’ vision to ensure that cycling is accessible to all. In particular we are keen to learn from their experience of increasing recreational cycling opportunities for people with disabilities or differing needs. As we aim to get 1 million more people onto a bike it’s hugely important to British Cycling that everyone who would like to get involved in cycling has the opportunity to do so.’
Ian Tierney, Director, Cycling Projects said: ‘Cycling Projects is proud to work with British Cycling as the national governing body for cycling as it inspires the nation to get involved in cycling at all levels. We are delighted to share our experience with British Cycling and its partners. Our Wheels for All programme for people with disabilities gives individuals, carers and support staff the knowledge and confidence to work with adapted cycles for their clients or family member so that all can enjoy the benefits of cycling in a sociable environment. We even provide the adapted cycles so everyone can get involved. Working together Cycling Projects and British Cycling can inform the debate on inclusive cycling, and help clubs, councils and facilities learn from our practical experience.’
