Community Cycle Clubs impact
For the past decade, Cycling UK’s Community Cycle Clubs programme has helped local organisations use cycling to improve health, wellbeing and community connection.
By combining funding, training, equipment and dedicated support, Community Cycle Clubs enable community organisations to create welcoming, accessible cycling opportunities that respond to local needs. Together, they’ve helped thousands of people become more active, build confidence and connect with others.
Over the last 10 years, Community Cycle Clubs have:
- Supported 195 community organisations
- Engaged more than 11,000 participants
- Recorded more than 94,000 attendances
- Delivered more than 13,000 cycling sessions
Community Cycle Clubs: 10 years of impact
Over the last decade, Community Cycle Clubs have created opportunities for people from all backgrounds to access cycling in ways that work for them. Read our 10-year impact report to learn more about the people, organisations and communities that have shaped the programme.
Reaching people who face the greatest barriers to cycling
Community Cycle Clubs are designed to engage people who are underrepresented in cycling and physical activity. By working with trusted local organisations already embedded within their communities, the programme helps remove barriers and create opportunities for people who may not otherwise take part.
Across the programme:
- 51% of participants are women
- 45% are from minority ethnic communities
- 46% live in the 30% most deprived areas of England
- 18% report a long-term health condition
Support healthier, more active lives
For many participants, cycling becomes more than just a physical activity. It provides routine, independence, confidence and a sense of belonging.
Over the last six years:
- 75% of participants cycle at least once a fortnight, an increase of 26%
- 78% say they now do more exercise
- 86% say taking part made them feel happier
- 62% have replaced some car journeys with cycling
Case studies
Learn about our clubs across England and the stories from adults 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 Newcastle, 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, 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.
