Image: Cycling UK
A new free loan scheme has been launched in Greater Manchester and Inverness to help people with long-term health conditions and disabilities to enjoy the benefits of cycling.
The Inclusive Cycling Experience, launched by Cycling UK, has a variety of bespoke and customised cycles. Its fleet of tricycles, e-cycles, recumbent cycles and tandems help overcome many of the problems that prevent people with disabilities, such as visual impairment, limited mobility or dyspraxia, from using a standard upright two-wheel bicycle.
The programme, funded by the Motability Foundation, opened in Greater Manchester on 17 April and Inverness on 19 April. The loans come with confidence-building taster sessions, with expert support ensuring each person gets a cycle that is right for them and their cycling needs.
Jenny Box, Cycling UK’s deputy director of behaviour change, said: “Cycling is not only a joyful experience that everyone should have a chance to enjoy, but it can significantly boost independence for people with long-term health conditions or limited mobility.
“With the right support and the right cycle, almost anyone can benefit from cycling. The Inclusive Cycling Experience will make congestion-busting, healthy and energising travel accessible to everyone.”
Lisa Jones, director of charitable operations at the Motability Foundation, said:
“We’re excited to award Cycling UK with this grant to introduce inclusive cycling training programmes at mobility hubs for disabled people in Manchester and Inverness.
“We know that active travel, such as cycling, can benefit wellbeing for disabled people, by increasing mobility and reducing social isolation. Awarding grants to important organisations like these helps us to make an immediate difference to the transport needs of disabled people.”
Comment on this story