Community Cycle Clubs impact
Community Cycle Clubs aren’t just about cycling: they’re helping to tackle some of the biggest barriers to being active and connected.
From health inequality and transport poverty to social isolation and underrepresentation in cycling, the clubs are making a real difference in people’s lives.
Clubs have helped people recover from illness, improve their fitness, build confidence and friendships, and replace car journeys with cycling – all in a supportive, community-led environment where everyone is welcome.
Since 2020, the programme has:
- Run more than 11,000 club sessions
- Engaged over 10,000 participants
Participant demographics:
- 52% from the most deprived areas in England
- 51% women
- 42% from diverse backgrounds
- 21% living with long term health conditions
Three months after first taking part in a Community Cycle Clubs activity:
- 78% said taking part had increased the amount of exercise they do
- 78% are now cycling regularly
- 62% feel more confident about cycling
Community Cycle Clubs impact report 2020-23
Every three years we publish an impact report to show the difference Community Cycle Clubs are making across the country.
This report covers the period 2020-23, highlighting how clubs have supported thousands of people to discover the benefits of cycling, build confidence and connect with their communities.
Case studies
Learn about our clubs across England and the stories from people whose lives have been positively changed through cycling.
Paul’s story
Paul’s journey began at Damien John Kelly House in Liverpool, a recovery centre that ran a Community Cycle Club. Joining his first ride there gave him the push he needed to begin turning things around.
Through volunteering, ride leading and bike repair, Paul discovered the power of cycling not only to transform his own life, but also to support others on their recovery journey.
Watch the video to hear Paul’s inspiring story in his own words.
Give a Girl a Bike – West Midlands
Set up by Paulette in 2023, this women-only group helps local women gain confidence, improve their health and enjoy cycling – especially those without access to their own bikes. With support from the programme, they now run regular weekly rides using a fleet of shared bikes and trained leaders.
[My experience of cycling was] non-existent, terrified. [It has benefitted the community] massively, free bikes, exercise, tuition, it’s a tremendous benefit. I have friends, less anxiety, no stress, feel like I could do anything and beat anything
Sarah
I never went out [cycling] before and now look forward to it. We get all the training that gives you confidence on your bike
Janet
Re-Co-Co – North-east
Based at a mental health recovery college in Gateshead, Re-Co-Co’s cycle group offers a supportive way to build fitness, confidence and social connection. Volunteers trained as leaders now run weekly rides with strong take-up.
I perceived myself as someone in their late 50s and thought I couldn’t participate in sport. I felt old; low self esteem; I surprised myself – my attitude changed from can’t do to can do
Attendee
In a group you bring each other along, you have a laugh … it is easier to express myself when I am riding because I am happier and in nature
Grace
Meet, Move, Mend (Repeat) – East Midlands
Part of local charity Developmentplus, this club helps people in Lincoln tackle isolation, mental health challenges and inequality through regular group rides led by trained volunteers.
The social isolation became quite bad for me, it became almost a phobia of going out, but now I have a guaranteed go to get back into those good social cycles. It gives me another day in the week when I know I can meet up with a group of familiar people
Dan
CycleTy Dartford CCC – Kent
Founded by a local cycling instructor, CycleTy focuses on community cohesion and helping people from diverse backgrounds discover the benefits of cycling. They now run monthly rides with growing numbers.
I saw a flyer for these rides so thought I’d come along and try and they’ve been absolutely fantastic. I only wish there were more – I’d come to every single one!
Jack
St Augustine’s Cycle Club – West Yorkshire
Based at St Augustine’s Centre in Calderdale, this club offers bike repair workshops and regular rides open to people of all backgrounds, including those new to the area. With trained leaders and loan bikes available, participants gain skills, confidence and freedom to travel independently.
It’s amazing to be able to come and learn new skills … the community side of it is super important, we can learn together and get better. I tell lots of people that they should come to the centre and take part!
Friedhaem
They have helped teach me how to maintain a bike at the workshop. They have also provided me with a loan bike that is mine to use whenever I need to. I use it almost every day
Higher
Aigburth Community Cycle Club – Liverpool
Launched in 2021, Aigburth CCC runs up to 12 rides a month from three hubs across the city. With trained leaders and volunteers, the club supports both health and community connections.
I feel a deeper sense of belonging to the Aigburth community … Now I am training to be a bike leader
Olivia
Having being diagnosed with cancer this [club] has given me emotional and spiritual strength … It is a lifeline
Attendee
Explore the impact of our projects across the UK
Across the UK, Cycling UK delivers a range of projects that enable more people to experience the joy of cycling. From supporting communities through local clubs, to helping people develop new skills or access bikes for the first time, our work is creating healthier, happier and greener lives.
On these pages you can explore the impact of our projects – the stories, numbers and outcomes that show how cycling is changing lives.
