The idea
This project leverages bicycle repair and use as a community-centric platform to provide essential skills training. Focused on improving employability, it particularly supports ex-offenders through collaboration with Onwards & Upwards and XO Bikes. These individuals start with cycle mechanic training and progress to in-house shop roles, offering them practical experience in a commercial setting. Over a minimum three-month period, the initiative helps build their confidence, competence, and readiness for employment. By connecting with local bike shops, the project secures placements that may lead to lasting career opportunities, fostering integration and growth within the community.
What we'll deliver
- Create training space for more people
- Train more people
- Equip two work stations for training
Why it's a great idea
- Promotes community integration by fostering relationships between trainees and local businesses.
- Reduces recidivism rates by offering meaningful career pathways to ex-offenders.
- Builds teamwork and communication skills through real-world commercial experience.
- Contributes to local economy growth by upskilling individuals and increasing workforce availability.
- Supports personal growth by providing structured long-term training.
- Strengthens partnerships with charities like Onwards & Upwards and XO Bikes, enhancing collaborative impact.
- Encourages sustainable practices by featuring bicycle repair, promoting environmental consciousness.
Steps to get it done
- Appoint builders to reconfigure the interior space
- Install workstations
- Bring in trainees
- Start trainee employment
- Find placements within other bike shops
- Investigate possiblity of employment within diverse industries partnering possibly with UPSTREAM?
