Cycle for your community! Cycling UK launches major volunteering drive across Greater Manchester

By Victoria Heywood

Monday, 19 March 2018

Cycling UK seeks cyclists looking to be involved in brilliant volunteering projects
Success with homelessness charity inspires new volunteering appeal
Images and case studies available

The national cycling charity Cycling UK is today launching a volunteering drive across Greater Manchester to reach anyone interested in helping others through the power of cycling.

The inspiration for this new recruitment campaign comes from one fantastic success story. At the end of 2017, H3, a charity supporting those experiencing homelessness in Stockport, was able to restart its cycle rides thanks to a volunteer appeal by Cycling UK. By reaching out to new ride leaders, H3 could continue taking vulnerable service users out on bike rides, increasing their confidence, limiting feelings of isolation and opening up new opportunities.

Margaret Mulowska, 30, one of the volunteers now leading rides for H3, said: “I think what's so great about cycling is it's something anyone can do, as long as you are mindful of the pace and not excluding anyone. You see so much more when you're out on a bike; there's that sense of adventure, and getting that vitamin D.

"It's brilliant to watch people surprise themselves, and share a conversation out riding.

“There's so much to be gained. I can’t think of a reason not to. And it's great to meet people who are as passionate about cycling as me."

Sarah Merrington, Cycling UK’s Volunteer Network Support Manager said: “We know there are Cycling UK supporters and members of the public who are interested in volunteering in cycling, but they don’t know how. We want to raise their awareness of the amazing local activities they can get involved with.

“The new recruitment campaign running in Manchester is just the start; there are lots of exciting roles where volunteers can have a massive impact on worthy local projects without giving a huge time commitment - unless they want to of course!

“If you have ever thought about doing something like this, please get in touch and find out how you can get involved.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer for Cycling UK in Greater Manchester can see current vacancies here: www.cyclinguk.org/volunteer-vacancies

Those outside the area can register their interest in volunteering here: www.cyclinguk.org/webform/i-want-find-out-more-about-volunteering

Notes to editors

1. Cycling UK, the national cycling charity, inspires and helps people to cycle and keep cycling, whatever kind of cycling they do or would like to do. Over a century’s experience tells us that cycling is more than useful transport; it makes you feel good, gives you a sense of freedom and creates a better environment for everyone. www.cyclinguk.org

2. H3 is a charity in Stockport dedicated to supporting those affected by homelessness. An article on finding their new inspirational volunteers can be found here: www.cyclinguk.org/article/volunteering-drive-homelessness-charity-has-great-results