Build Your Own Bike Project
Build Your Own Bike Project
We ran 8 one day workshops at the Trailer Trash workshops at Eastern Court. Participants were provided with the tools and bicycle parts and skilled advice to enable them to build their own bike. Two skilled trainers were on hand to offer help and advice. We advertised the opportunity widely to the homeless community and kept records of attendance … the project was far more successful than we expected .. it really met a need. Everyone enjoyed the workshop atmosphere. On completion everyone received a bike lock and set of lights. 8 day workshops offered 45 bicycles fixed up 65 individuals attended at least one workshop – 30 individuals attended more than one workshop. 7 individuals attended all 8 workshops.
Why the community needs this
Having access to a bicycle in good working order really helps homeless people to access the services and activities on offer around Cambridge to help them rebuild their lives. For those who have moved into tenancies often on the outskirts being able to visit friends etc cheaply can really help to prevent isolation and loneliness.
future plans
The level of interest and sustained attendance for these workshops dramatically exceeded our expectations … it has demonstrated the genuine demand for hands on skills based practical workshops that meet the immediate needs of homeless people. We have since run an intensive training course for four people who attended this project regularly so that they can offer regular bike surgeries at the homeless hostels. In the longer term we hope to set up a Recycled Cycles Social Enterprise business.
