The idea
Our organisation is part of a global one founded in Denmark in 2012 with the aim of allowing elderly citizens who are no longer physically able to enjoy a ride in a trishaw with a carer, friend or relative and experience the 'wind in their hair' again. Trishaws will be based at care homes within easy reach of safe cycleways and residents from the care home and the wider elderly community will be offered free rides by trained 'pilots' allowing them to reconnect and interact with other walkers, to chat, reminisce, laugh and enjoy a coffee or an ice cream. The distance covered is not important, the aim is to reduce isolation and to allow different generations within the community to benefit from either travelling with a relative or friend or volunteering to become a pilot. Many elderly can only get outside in a wheelchair and this incredible initiative allows them a freedom which benefits their mental health and well being.
What we'll deliver
- Purchase our first trishaw plus additions such as a hood and cover
- Train up pilots for initial care home
- Install trishaw within care home and start operating
Why it's a great idea
This incredible project can involve so many people in the community. Numerous successful chapters operate within the UK and we want to be the first in Chester. It will be multigenerational as pilots can operate from 16 upwards and passengers can be any age allowing grandchildren to ride with grandparents as well as elderly travelling out with their friends. It will create social connections for those who are struggling with loneliness and allow elderly with mobility issues to get fresh air and freedom. Case studies have proven it promotes happiness and well being. As the project grows and more trishaws are purchased we will have the capacity to help more people enjoy the outdoors again. Chester has many safe designated cycleways as well as parks, tow paths and nature reserves and it will be thrilling to see these trishaws doing such valuable work after what has been a horrendous 18 months for many elderly.
Steps to get it done
- Purchasing our first trishaw
- Training pilots and completing DBS checks
- Storing the trishaw within the care home
- Trishaw rides commencing
Cycling without Age principles:
Generosity: Cycling Without Age is based on generosity and kindness. It starts with the obvious generous act of taking one or two elderly or less-abled people out on a bike ride. It’s a simple act that everyone can do.
Slowness: Slowness allows you to sense the environment, be present in the moment and it allows people you meet along the way to be curious and gain knowledge about Cycling Without Age because you make time to stop and talk.
Storytelling: Older adults have so many stories that will be forgotten if we don’t reach out and listen to them. We tell stories and we listen to stories on the bike.
Relationships: Cycling Without Age is about creating a multitude of new relationships: Relationships build trust, happiness and quality of life.
Without Age: Life unfolds at all ages, young and old, and can be thrilling, fun, sad, beautiful and meaningful. Cycling Without Age is about letting people age in a positive context
