Cycling UK in Scotland
We imagine a Scotland where the streets are safe and free of congestion and the air is clean to breathe – where people experience the exhilaration of cycling when zipping about for errands and local journeys, longer leisure rides, or finding ways to improve their physical health and wellbeing.
Our work across Scotland aims to achieve this vision by delivering a portfolio of programmes to 50,000 people per year, running campaigns and influencing policy at Holyrood and locally. We support almost 5,000 members and together we advocate for cycling across the nation.
Supporting you to cycle
We have a range of programmes in Scotland, but with one core aim: to support more people to cycle regularly for transport, leisure and adventure.
Our projects particularly focus on empowering people who are less likely to cycle – giving them the support and encouragement they need to start riding a bike regularly through high quality interventions. We work with anyone that is currently underserved, including women, families, minority ethnic communities, people living in otherwise disadvantaged areas, rural communities, disabled people and older people.
We know that our impact is greatest when we collaborate, so we work in partnership with a wide range of groups and are part of the Active Travel Delivery Partners. From the NHS and local authorities to grassroots community groups, we forge alliances that help get more people cycling. All of our projects in Scotland work with local communities and organisations – those that know their own areas best.
We have staff based across Scotland, who provide hands-on support and guidance for our projects and our partners. Our reach is truly national – from Shetland to the Scottish Borders, Cycling UK is making a difference in every local authority in Scotland.
I have multiple sclerosis and spinal issues. Cycling has helped my physical fitness but the biggest impact has been on my mental health. I love being outside and the impact of regular cycling shows me that I can still exercise even though I can’t walk. I LOVE IT!
Campaigning in Scotland
We campaign in Scotland for policies, action and investment in cycling which will encourage more people to cycle and benefit from healthy, active and low-carbon lifestyles. We also support local cycle campaigning around Scotland through our Cycle Advocacy Network in Scotland – we’re here to help you raise your voice and call for positive change in your local area.
Cycle campaigning news from Scotland
Member groups in Scotland
Cycling UK has member groups in Scotland which offer rides and events for all abilities. Every Cycling UK member can ride with any member group and non-members are always welcome. It’s a good idea to check in advance for any requirements such as pre-booking, minimum speed and so on.
Scotland National Advisory Committee
The committee was formed in November 2020 and is recognised by the Cycling UK board of trustees as a “committee to advise, inform and be a critical friend” to the UK board. The trustees do not have to do what the Scottish Advisory Committee says, but they do have to listen.
We are keen to have as diverse and inclusive a committee as possible, with people coming from a wide range of backgrounds, places, types of cycling and perspectives. We welcome applications from younger people and underrepresented groups in cycling, including black, Asian and minority ethnic groups.
In return for your passion, commitment and skills, we can offer you the chance to make a significant difference to cycling in Scotland and across the UK. Please take a look at the application pack if you’re interested in joining us.
Please contact Andrew Abbess, volunteer chair, for more information.