Milestones Trust cycling group keeps its pedals turning
The Milestones Trust cycling group, whose members have learning disability or mental health needs, spent a summer taking part in Bristol City Council’s All Abilities cycling sessions.
The specialist adapted bikes provided at the sessions – which were too expensive for any of the group to buy themselves – were hired by the group and proved a great way to introduce cycling to those who had never tried it before.
Only, when the programme finished, the group still wanted to get out on their bikes and continue what they had begun together. Mike Rogers, Home Manager at Milestones Trust’s Vassall Road home, says there was only one thing for it:
‘Having introduced our service users to cycling activity, it seemed a shame that the sessions were to end,’ he explained. ‘So we started our own club!’
Since establishing the club, they have been meeting regularly and borrowing bikes from Bikeability– the range of machines used by the group is impressive in its own right, with a four-wheeler, hand bikes and some adapted to hold a wheelchair all among the fleet!
‘Some of the members had never ridden bikes before joining the club, while others were keen to start cycling again’ said Mike. ‘The club is really empowering – it gives people who may not be able to ride a regular bike the chance to try cycling’ he added.
Each hour-long session is attended by staff from Bikeability and from Milestones Trust, though they are seeking further volunteers to help sustain it.
Volunteer co-ordinator Brenda Stanton said the opportunities to participate are varied:
‘We are looking for people who would like to help our residents get the most from the sessions. This could be as a cycling partner on an adapted bike, or as a marshal to encourage those cycling on their own to keep to the right path, keep going and to add to the fun!”
