Posted: 21 November, 2023
Since its launch in October 2022, Wheels for All Tendring has had a fantastic year. We’ll take you on a ride through the centre’s achievements, challenges and positive participant feedback that have shaped its journey to create inclusive and accessible cycling opportunities.
The Year in Numbers:
- 13 independent riders
- 2 Wheels for All Active Hubs
- 6 Wheels for All Tendring prospective hub locations identified (out of which the team are aiming to implement 3)
- 40 1-1 sessions
- 3 sessional workers recruited
Key Highlights:
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Julie Bunnage did an amazing job getting everything up and running, especially with the urgency of the Essex Pedal Power project (giving away FREE cycles to residents who might not be able to afford to buy one) and being able to provide adapted cycles to people with additional needs. Julie has now retired but everyone at Wheels for All is incredibly grateful for all that she has done to get Wheels for All Tendring off the ground.
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The centre has welcomed a new Project Manager – a very warm welcome to Hannah Johns!
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We are working towards creating a sustainable hub by temporarily storing cycles on site at Shorefields School, rather than having to ship them in each session, and receiving access to a disabled toilet within the school during the holidays
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A regular cyclist at Shorefields School took part in the summer sessions and returned to the after-school sessions in September
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They ran a publicity stand at Essex Pedal Power Communi-tea event in Harwich · They launched the first inclusive cycling hub for Harwich and Dovercourt
Wheels for All Tendring has received some brilliant feedback from participants and their carers…
“Emma loves to come to cycling and this gives her a safe space to do that as she wouldn’t be safe on a road.”
– Dawn (Shorefields School)
“Your cycling sessions give our son something to look forward to and with the effort needed to ride your cycles, many of his sensory needs are being met, i.e. improved balance, direction of movement, coordination of legs and arms, and using leg muscles.
The group sessions give him some contact with his peer group as he had become very isolated. We thank your Wheels for All team for giving our son some purpose in life again.”
– Alistair Sams (Shorefields School)
“Due to my health issues, I never thought I’d get to ride again! Wheels for All Tendring has assisted me to get my trike. I can get on and off easily which I couldn’t do on a conventional bike. I can reach the pedals and I’m able to easily adjust the handlebars and seat. It gives me freedom again which I never thought I’d be able to get.”
– Dan
We’ll be sharing more feedback on social media so make sure to give us a follow!
We are delighted that the centre received a glowing review from an Essex County Council Researcher in February 2023.
“There is enthusiasm around the project. Participants proudly share their progress with the staff, going as far as notifying them about their latest trips.
There is strong synergy between Essex Pedal Power and Wheels for All in Clacton and Jaywick: the two gazebos stand next to each other, and participants of both programmes enjoy being outdoors and riding together.
The staff are supportive and actively encourage participants to share their experiences and feelings.”
Wheels for All Tendring has plenty of exciting projects in the pipeline, including expansion – look out for new hubs opening near you!
Here are the centre’s Key Objectives for the next 6 months:
- Identify future participants across Tendring
- Complete feasibility study for 3 more hubs
- Open hub at Acorn Village in Mistley
- Open hub in Harwich
- Agree location and start planning for a hub on the Clacton/Holland/Walton seafront
- Recruit volunteers
A huge congratulations to the hard-working and passionate team at Wheels for All Tendring. We are so proud of your achievements thus far and look forward to the next chapter.
As we expand our Wheels for All hubs across Tendring, we would like to grow our team of Volunteers. If you have a passion for helping others and can spare a few hours a week to support and encourage people within your community to get active, cycle and enjoy the fresh air then we would love to hear from you. It’s a great way to get involved in the community, make friends, smile and laugh lots and all whilst helping others. All training will be provided.
Get in touch for more information here.
