Posted on Wednesday 25th October 2023
Kidsgrove members enjoyed learning to cycle at the adaptive bike pop-up session in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
INTO Newcastle hosted a successful adaptive bike session to enable the community to experience riding adaptive bikes for the first time.
The team held a pop-up session at Chesterton Park based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, to showcase and demonstrate a range of adaptive bikes to the community.
Members at Kidsgrove Care Solutions attended the session and achieved a significant milestone by mastering the art of riding adaptive bikes.
Riding a bicycle is often considered a rite of passage, but for those with learning difficulties, it can be an intimidating challenge.
The INTO team embarked on a mission to change this narrative. By providing adaptive bikes and expert guidance, they aimed to empower these individuals and break down barriers.
Under the careful guidance of skilled instructors, many of these remarkable individuals experienced the joy of riding a bike for the very first time.
Each participant brought their unique story and determination to the event, which was met with overwhelming support from the attendees. The atmosphere was filled with joy and inspiration as onlookers witnessed the participants conquering new skills, having fun and feeling proud of their achievements.
David Williams, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said:
“This event is just the beginning of INTO’s ongoing commitment to empowering individuals no matter what support they need.
“The INTO scheme is all about creating free and inclusive active travel opportunities for people across Newcastle-under-Lyme, while boosting mental health and wellbeing via walking and cycling with the team.
“It’s fantastic to see sessions packed out like this and fostering a sense of achievement for everyone involved. I would like to pass on my thanks to the INTO team for making such a positive impact within the community in Newcastle-under-Lyme.”
Lisa Baskville, at Kidsgrove Care Solutions said:
“This is the first time we’ve come to an adaptive bike session with INTO and it’s fair to say it's not going to be the last.
“The reaction has been amazing; they’re absolutely loving it. It’s a new experience for many of them today and seeing them all getting involved, hearing them laughing and seeing the smiles on their faces is just fantastic. We will definitely be reaching out to INTO again and seeing what else is on offer.”
Members of Kidsgrove also attend INTO’s weekly ‘Get into Walking’ sessions, to keep themselves active and improve their health and wellbeing as a group.
To find out more about INTO Newcastle and to book on upcoming sessions visit: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/intonewcastle.