The cycle hub project aims to create an inclusive cycling culture in Liverpool by encouraging diverse communities to choose cycling and remove barriers and stereotypes that have prevented them previously from enjoying the benefits of cycling. It also aims to create cycle themed employment and self-employment opportunities in the community.
Due to COVID-19 the project has adapted its focus to supporting frontline/key workers to enable them to cycle in the current environment. We believe this will improve their health/wellbeing, save them money, reduce stress and create a positive environment in these testing times.
Post the epidemic we will:
- Recruit/Train cycling instructors, ride leaders and mechanics who reflect their communities
We have not yet received formal permission for use of space at Kuumba Imani. We are extremely confident that this will come through during this campaign, but if it is withdrawn, no funds will be transferred to the project delivery manager
What we'll deliver:
- Provide 100 cycles
- Ensure 100 key workers are able to cycle safely
- Ensure 100 key workers are able to maintain their bikes
Why it's a great idea:
Support NHS/Key workers/frontline staff in the battle against COVID-19
Increase number of BME communities able to train the trainers and win contracts and tenders for cycle-related activities
increase number of organisations which make cycling an integral aspect of their
Increase diversity of individuals able to ride - Balaneceability sessions in various outlets
Increase diversity of individuals able to ride safely on the road – bikeability sessions
Increase diversity of communities competing in cycling as a sport – cycle coaching classes
Increase diversity of individuals able to maintain their cycle – cycle repair
Increase diversity of individuals choosing to ride instead of using public transport/ cars to school and work
Increase number of people in L8 choosing to ride in their recreational journeys
Increase number of people riding with disabilities or in old age
Increase employment opps
Reduce number of people attending Drs appointments
Decrease food wastage - cycle cargo
Steps to get it done:
- 100 cycles provided to NHS/key workers
- 5 new cycle instructors from diverse communities
- 5 new cycle mechanics from diverse communities
- 3 new business statt ups on bikes
- 2 new monthly led rides in diverse communities
- 50 new cyclists from diverse communities
Cycle of Life is designed to empower diverse communities and create an inclusive cycling environment in Merseyside. The project will achieve this by putting diverse communities in decision making roles and in positions to enable change. We believe cycling stands as a symbol of equality, independence and empowerment and these values determine our projects ethos and direction.
We will:
Help the Environment - choosing to cycle will reduce unnecessary vehicle journeys
Promote volunteering
Increase health/wellbeing - cycle rides promote staying active, burning calories, exploring the city, independence, meeting new people, closer to nature, community cohesion, mental health, social interaction.
Boost economy - using cycle cargo bikes to create eco businesses and viable alternatives or supplementing existing businesses.
Employment/reducing crime - ex offender engagement, cycle instructors/mechanics paid work, businesses on wheels
Inclusive society - bringing diverse people together.
