Sustrans, the charity making it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle, is working with partners to create a London-wide accessible cycle loan scheme to provide improved options to travel actively for disabled people across the capital.
Wheels4MeLondon, in collaboration with Wheels for Wellbeing and Peddle My Wheels and funded by the Motability Foundation, will provide free cycle loans for disabled people. Sustrans’ latest Walking and Cycling Index, the largest independent survey of active travel in the UK, found that 27% of disabled people do not cycle but would like to. Further to that, 25% of all people surveyed said access to a non-standard cycle like a tricycle or a handcycle would help them to cycle more.
By increasing access and training for non-standard cycles across London, the charity is working towards creating fully inclusive cycle hires. Through this project, more people will be able to take advantage of the wellbeing and physical health benefits of cycling.
The Wheels4MeLondon scheme will offer free, month-long, accessible cycle loans to people across London. The types of cycles available include upright trikes and semi-recumbent trikes, with the fleet to be expanded to other models in the future. In addition, the scheme consists of free delivery, a training session, insurance against theft or damage, and collection when finished. The cycle training included is tailored to meet each individual’s specific needs, increasing travel safety and confidence when travelling in the capital.
To ensure that participants receive the right services and cycles, Wheels for Wellbeing will provide consultation sessions to offer essential support and guidance.
Lack of access to a suitable mobility aid can reduce or remove the ability to travel safely and independently for many. The Disabled Citizens’ Inquiry found that 86% of disabled people across the UK would find it helpful to walk or wheel more if everyone who requires a mobility aid had financial support and advice to access one to meet their needs.
Wheels for Wellbeing website
