How a GTCT grant has supported Cardiff Pedal Power to reach young participants with disabilities
A grant from the Geraint Thomas Cycling Trust has enabled Cardiff Pedal Power to expand their invaluable work in the Cardiff Community.
The charity works with more than 1,700 active members, the majority of whom are disabled, and facilitates nearly 20,000 cycle hires each year.
Pedal Power reaches people who may face barriers because of disability, age, health, finances, confidence or social isolation, as well as organisations supporting communities across Cardiff and the surrounding area.
“We want to enable cycling for all,” Sam Fairfield, Pedal Power Cardiff Director told us.
It does this by providing access to specialist cycles and equipment, helping people develop the skills and confidence to cycle independently, supporting people to stay active following illness or injury, creating opportunities for people to meet others and feel part of their community, and offering a welcoming, accessible and warm community space where people can spend time without pressure to purchase.
“My son loved that he could use a specialist bike, that was even in his favourite colour,” said one participant’s family member. “It’s not very often I can find an activity that both my disabled son and daughter can do, and enjoy, together!”
“It was fantastic to be able to access an assessment, membership, and bike hire so easily and with great support from staff,” stated another.
The grant provided by the GTCT funded 60 free annual Pedal Power memberships to disabled children and young people aged 7–17, enabling them to access inclusive cycling opportunities without financial barriers.
Normally £25, these memberships see the beneficiaries receive a free initial personal assessment, access to specialist adapted cycles and equipment, and ongoing opportunities to participate in cycling in a safe and supportive environment.
The grant has also helped the charity extend its reach to young people who may not otherwise discover or be able to access their services. By reducing the upfront cost of membership, it removes one barrier to participation and opens up opportunities for physical activity, confidence-building, independence and social connection.
Pedal Power also provides further benefits through membership, including reduced hire costs and free rides for carers if required, making ongoing access more affordable.
“This grant supports our aim of enabling cycling for all,” stated Fairfield.
“Being able to give away these free memberships creates a clear and immediate pathway into cycling for young people who may otherwise be excluded. Not only will it benefit 60 children and young people, but it will also benefit their families and carers as we know that cycling is a wonderful route to greater social connections, confidence, and independence.
“Thank you to the GTCT for making this possible!”
The GTCT is thrilled to have been able to support Cardiff Pedal Power’s brilliant work, helping the charity to open up cycling opportunities for young people who would have otherwise found barriers to participating.
