We’re tackling inequality by providing accessible and inclusive transportation to people in disadvantaged areas. Ensuring that affordability is not a barrier to active travel.
How it works:
Free bikes are given to people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford to buy one themselves, to use. After six months of use, the bikes are theirs to keep.
We support people on their biking journey with adapted bikes if required, safety accessories, free cycle lessons, and free maintenance workshops. We also inspire social networking and create pathways for continued engagement through local cycling clubs and events.
Inclusive travel. Community cohesion. Healthier, greener, and safer places.
In partnership with Sport England and its Local Delivery Pilots, and organisations including the Department for Transport, the NHS, and Local Authorities, we are enabling more individuals to overcome the barriers to cycling; encouraging sustainable travel for those who are usually excluded. Helping to make places healthier, greener, safer, and less congested.
Our ambition is to enable more people and places to access the many community benefits of cycling.
Free Bikes in Action
The Active Wellbeing Society has been working with Sport England’s Local Delivery Pilots, and in partnership with Local Authorities, the NHS, the Department for Transport, plus a host of other agencies, businesses, and organisations, to deliver three significant community bike programmes in Birmingham, Essex, and Southall.
While free bikes are at the centre of each scheme, we have collaborated with partners and communities to tailor the individual programmes to meet local needs, providing help, support, and advice; from procuring bikes and managing distribution to delivering full wrap around services including bike lessons, maintenance workshops and group rides.
Case studies
Big Birmingham Bikes
A pioneering cycle infrastructure programme to give out free bikes to people living in the most deprived areas of the city.
Cycle Centre Location
Essex Pedal Power is a multi-agency programme, delivering on multiple agendas and outcomes depending on the individual needs of the neighbourhoods.
Let's ride South Hall
Part of the Let’s Go Southall, it is the biggest community cycling project in London and aims to transform Southall into a sustainable, healthy, and environment-friendly place.