I am always on the lookout for great model programs that tap
the freedom of bicycling to help people who are struggling. This recent article
from the Guardian caught my eye because the cycling club it spotlights focuses
on the dignity that cycling can bring to those caught in homelessness. This
cycling club in London shows its women members that they no longer need to be
identified as homeless. They are strong, independent people who can transport
themselves wherever they choose. The article starts off with this:
A cycling session at Queen Mary
homeless women’s hostel in London starts with some reflection in the tea room.
Eleven women discuss how they’re doing this week, how the cycling went for them
last week and what they’re hoping to build on in today’s session. Then they
push their bikes to a local basketball court to practise in the safety of an
off-road environment. Supported by instructors from Westminster council’s
training team, they practise riding by themselves; pushing off, cycling in a
straight line, looking over one shoulder, turning, keeping going.
Small achievements are important
and depend on the starting point of each woman; for some, keeping going is a
key goal to address physical fitness, for others it is balance or specific
cycling skills. They are all working towards Bikeability Level 1 which enables
them to control a bike safely enough to progress on to quiet roads, making
turns and negotiating traffic. In some sessions the women learn about
map-reading and planning journeys, pumping up tyres and other basic
maintenance. Read
more here.
Enjoy the article and consider how your bicycle programs
could be adapted to welcome homeless people.
Sue
