Volunteers needed to support inclusive cycling sessions: Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign

At Moredon we aim to provide inclusive cycling opportunities for anyone, no matter their ability. A key focus is providing cycling sessions for disabled adults and children and learn to cycle programmes for all ages. These programmes are run with the support of grant funding and a team of dedicated volunteers.

We're always looking for new volunteers, and we can provide a range of volunteering opportunities from regular weekly hours to work experience and corporate days. Training is provided, along with opportunities to join coaching and ride leader courses.

Here's what one volunteer, Pete, has to say: "I love riding my bike and experience a lot of joy from it, but it's something I took for granted before becoming involved in the Limitless programme. It's incredible to see the range of adapted cycles available and it is an honour to be able to volunteer to help disabled people experience the joy that cycling brings to me, it's a highlight of my week."

Currently we are looking for volunteers to support our community cycling programmes and weekday sessions with SEND schools. Key roles of volunteers include:

- Setting up and packing away (e.g. Getting bikes and equipment out of storage)

- Helping to fit helmets

- Helping to fit participants to the right bike for them

- Meeting and greeting participants

- Riding around the traffic-free track, providing encouragement and monitoring the safe running of the session

- Supporting our bike mechanic with routine maintenance and servicing and repairs of bikes and adapted cycles

We're particularly keen to hear from people who are interested and/or skilled at fixing bikes, passionate about cycling or have experience of working with disabled people and marginalised groups. 

For more information, get in touch with Community Developer, Becky Cox: email: [email protected]. uk or phone 07515 606704.