All Ability Cycling

Specific information about the project as it moves forward and what people are doing for themselves ..

The World Health Organisation defines Disability as follows: "Disabilities is an umbrella term, covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions.

Of course there are those who have a disability who can ride any and all types of bicycles. Quest 88's range of cycles is aimed at those who require 3 wheels and those who need encouragement and supervision whilst riding. When we mention disability and disabled in the context of this website we are referring to those interested in cycling but who generally need more physical or cognitive support or have impaired balance or confidence issues.

Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, Learning disabilities, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Angelman Syndrome, Prader Willi Syndrome, Stroke Survivors, Head and Spinal injuries.

The following information has been written and collated to help parents, end-users and those involved with inclusive cycling. It is not a definitive guide as each cyclist is completely individual. However we do hope that the advice below can help you in some way.

Inclusive means "to include or encompass everything and everyone". As far as inclusive cycling is concerned, total inclusion is an ambition, a goal, to enable everyone to participate in cycling, together.

With imagination, engineering knowhow and determination, children and adults with a varied range of abilities and disabilities can be enabled to participate in cycling activities with their able bodied peers, to enjoy exercise, fresh air and fun.

Cycling has the power to connect community and integrate those with disabilities into society.

Haus Munstertal is a residential respite and rehabilitation centre for children with disabilities and their families, situated in the Black Forest, Germany. One mile away from Haus Munstertal is the town of Staufen. For many years the residential centre and the town have led a disconnected existence, just barely aware of each other. When a cycle rental scheme was introduced at the Haus by Draisin, families began to take leisure excursions and shopping breaks into the town. This has now sparked a new relationship between the town and the respite centre and this having a mutual benefit for both parties. This means there is now more local support for Haus Munstertal , and an economic benefit for local businesses and residents.

Telford Social Services Day Services approached Quest88 in 2008, as they wanted to purchase some bikes to begin a cycle project in the Telford Town Park. They now run 2 cycling projects, one from a local day centre with access to cycle paths, and one in the heart of the town park. Day service users now cycle regularly in the community as part of their weekly activity program. Cycling is working to pacify those with more challenging behaviours. This improves the service user's sense of well-being and makes the job of the carer a little easier.

There are so many weird and wonderful contraptions available. You can learn a lot from looking through this website and reading through the advice given. Then the next step is up to you. Quest 88 offer a free demonstration service and also run road-shows around the country so that you can come and try any number of cycles, tricycles and companion bikes.

In recent years inclusive cycling has emerged as a vehicle for social inclusion and general fitness. Sometimes the therapeutic benefits can be overlooked. The symmetrical exercise offered by cycling, when combined with Physiotherapy, can produce great results and in some cases accelerate progress.

As well as designing and selling inclusive cycling products, Quest 88 is also a leading designer and manufacturer of therapy and rehabilitation equipment and we carry a lot of what we know about physiology, position and posture into the design of our cycles and their accessories. Our clinical understanding is what sets Quest 88 and our products apart from those who would simply try and adapt a tricycle or cycle for a disabled rider.

A fixed-gear cycle (or fixed-wheel cycle) is a cycle that has no freewheel, meaning it cannot coast. The pedals are always in motion when the bicycle is moving. This can greatly assist children and adults with little strength or low muscle tone as it greats an assistive momentum. A fixed wheel tricycle is useful for children who have limited space as they can reverse the tricycle for manoeuvring.

Even if a child or adult does not have the strength to pedal independently, by pushing or pulling them along, a child still benefits from passive exercise on a fixed wheel cycle. They can also enjoy the fact that they have their own cycle.

This is the most common place form of transmission for a cycle and it allows the rider to coast, "freewheel" without the chain wheel rotating whilst the cycle is in motion. Many children and adults with low muscle tone can find freewheel transmissions difficult as their ability to continue the full pedal rotation is inhibited.

Quest 88 provide, through the Draisin range of cycles, both fixed wheel and free wheel on the same cycle which makes them ideal for training riders to pedal forwards and ultimately progress towards freewheel.

Most of the cycles developed for disabled riders have a limited range of gears, normally up to 7 or 9. This is generally due to the types of terrain that are suitable for disabled cyclists. Some riders will not be able to operate gears because of physical impairment or lack of cognitive skill or coordination problems. In this situation the parent or carer will need to select the gear in advance. For the more enthusiastic rider who may not have much spatial awareness, it may be necessary to select a high gear to reduce resistance and restrict speed.

For children and adults with Cerebral Palsy a fixed wheeled tricycle is a good place to start. Footplates and ankle foot orthoses may help the rider to maintain efficient pedalling.

Some of the Draisin companion cycles in our range have opt out gearing, which means the co-rider can rest whilst the parent or carer continues to pedal. Similarly these cycles can be switched over to connect the co-rider and carers drive. The co-rider can then benefit from passive exercise as the carer turns their charges' legs.

All of the Draisin range of cycles we supply can be fitted with a hub motor and pedal assist technology. This is normally operated by a twist throttle and works when the rider meets resistance and pedalling becomes difficult or when they become tired.

Quest 88 manufacture two kinds of footplate: the standard footplate features ankle and foot straps to secure the child's foot to the pedals; the advanced footplate uses the straps in the same way, but can be used in-conjunction with ankle-foot orthoses (calf supports).

The ankle-foot orthosis is a "splint" type device which controls the child's ankle and foot relationship. This prevents the toes from dropping to the point where it is hard to maintain pressure through the pedals to drive the tricycle and keep up momentum. The ankle-foot orthosis also controls the position of the knees and influences the hip adductors/abductors. In effect, this removes the need for a pommel or wedge to space the child's knees apart.

1. Support those with very little sitting balance and/or upper body control, to enable them to sit on a cycle. (For those with more complex needs)

Hip supports work as a foundation for controlling stability further up the trunk, thoracic, chest supports and a head support can be added for better positioning and control. Belts are used to secure the rider and to fix their position.

The rider's position and posture is further enhanced when they are holding the handlebar, enabling them to extend the arms and push back their shoulders.

2. Give riders with moderate balance problems a sense of security and confidence whilst riding. (for those with moderate disability, learning disabilities or confidence issues)

For this category of rider, the hip support is not there to control positioning or posture as such, but is there to give the rider more comfort and confidence. The position or height of the support is less critical. Belts can be used but are not always necessary.

There is a broad range of handlebar sizes and styles to choose from. The double or "twin" grip style allows the child to move their hands between the inner and outer grips to assist in the steering of the tricycle. Another style available is the "forearm gutter" style which offers support for the arms and features vertical hand grips.

Mainly developed for children and often referred to as "push/pull rods" or "steer rods", these are devices which help put the parent or carer in control of the child's speed and/or direction. Each manufacturer has their own unique system, some more complex than others, although they generally achieve the same goals.

Push rods can be used to assist the child's pedalling whilst they steer according to where they want to go. This is great for developing independence and improving spatial awareness as the child gains an understanding of cause and effect whilst steering. The push rod is also useful when a child is tiring or as a confidence builder in the first few days/weeks of using a new tricycle.

Pull rods are used to lead the tricycle from the front. The main advantage is that the parent/carer is able to engage and encourage the child face to face. One disadvantage however, is that the parent or carer is having to walk sideways- on or sometimes backwards.

Rear steer systems are available from most manufacturers and are available on or Draisin Neon and Laser models. The rear steer system is especially useful for assisting children who do not have the awareness or ability to steer independently and who are unlikely to in the future because of the nature of their disability. Rear systems are more expensive than the much simpler push and pull rods and should only be considered where it is highly unlikely that a child can develop their own steering skills over time with training.

These are designed for children and adults who have low muscle tone or weakness in the lower arm and hand and who want to participate more fully in leisure or DIY activities.

The Gripmit® from Quest 88 can be used to assist with the gripping of walking aids and tricycle handlebars, particularly where the user has a tendency to release handles spontaneously. Important: In this situation the Gripmit® must be prescribed and used responsibly and should not be simply relied upon at the expense of training and encouraging the individual to grip independently.

We have more to learn than to share here. The biggest thing we have learned at Quest 88, is that never make assumptions about who is able or unable to use different cycles. Through experience the Quest 88 specialists are usually able to match up an individual with the right cycle, however we saw one example of a young man who arrived at a road show in a parapet walker. His walking was very limited and his arm movements were very erratic and yet when a carer tried him in a semi recumbent, he was a natural. His ability to steer and pedal took us all by surprise. The secret is to just try things.

An assumption some people make, is that if someone arrives in a wheelchair, that they either require a hand-cycle or a wheelchair tandem. Sometimes such people are looking to use their legs to retard muscle weakness or ease stiffness, or for many children, to assist physical development. Whilst some children cannot yet walk independently, they may be using a standing frame and making steady progression towards greater weight bearing and eventually walking in a walker. In such cases they need to use their legs. Hand-cycling is fun too, so mix it up a bit.

Finally, Quest 88 want to assist you, by providing great equipment, but also by helping you to network, by sharing experiences and through training. Please contact them and find out ways we can help you with your cycling project

The following is not an exhaustive list but represents some of the areas you may wish to consider when assessing risk either as a parent/guardian or as a group organiser.

Personal safety equipment - helmet, harness, tendency towards seizures, joint restrictions, orthoses, appropriate clothing, general health.

Familiarity with the cycles handling, General fitness, patient handling experience, use of hoists, training and experience with cycles, general cycling proficiency, visibility, cycling helmet suitable clothing.

A tricycle needs 3 points of contact with the riding surface. Slopes, uneven surfaces, cambers and curbs are all potential hazards to the rider, especially if the rider needs securing to the saddle and pedals.

The rider's steering skills, ability to operate and understand braking and gear control are all factors in deciding the suitability of a location.

On the whole, a flat firm surface is best, free from traffic or parked vehicles and with appropriate supervision.

Cycling paths and country parks may be suitable, but it is always advisable to assess the route first to determine possible hazards such as streams and pot holes.

Cycles with a lower centre of gravity offer the rider more control such as the Relaxino and Twister.

Local knowledge and familiarity with route, weather considerations, pedestrians, pets, rivers or pools, ground under repair and embankments, designated cycle lanes and access restrictions.

This is a crucial part of cycling and yet so often ignored. All cycles and tricycles need some TLC.

Always make sure that your cycle is in good working order. Keep hold of your user manuals and observe them. Make copies and share them around with everyone who needs to be better informed, whether it is grandparents or colleagues.

Plan a maintenance and safety check schedule. If something is a amiss with your cycle or bicycle, address the issue quickly, don't postpone your actions. It is amazing how the condition of a cycle can deteriorate through neglect and then when you need to use the cycle, it is not functional.

Campaign launched for disabled cycling facility in Cornwall

Thursday 19th August 2011 16.35hrs

Today at BBC Radio Cornwall's invitation to appear on the show hosted by Tiffany Truscott, who was sitting in for Martin Baillie, the campaign for a disabled cycling facility in Cornwall was launched.

Wendy Creed said "With 4 special needs schools and foundation students at Truro College, there is definitely a need and that is before one even considers other residents of the county who are for example, deaf and blind. Having recently gained my 'Wheels for All Ride Leader's Certificate' in Bristol a couple of weeks ago, I am now more determined than ever to get this up and running as it is long overdue."

Issues which were discussed were the cost of the bikes which are expensive but can be purchased by companies or organisations and donated, with a sticker on it saying it was donated by 'A.N.Other Supporter' and how potential cyclists and bikes are matched up, subject to their limitations.

Already there is interest and support from the Cornwall Sports Partnership Disability Development Officer Steve Hillman, who when contacted asked to "Please add me to the list of trainee ride leaders and keep me in the loop."

Training as a Ride Leader will be given by Cycling Projects, a charity based in Warrington who specialise in such ventures and will also be the main point of contact for the bikes being supplied for it down here. Their trainers travel around the country to areas that embrace such a project and share their expertise with the volunteers and it really is an eye opener, truly making one think 'outside of the box!'

Both Wendy Creed and Steve Hillman have first hand experience of the 'feel good factor' that cycling produces, Wendy having worked with Doubletrees and trained in Bristol at the beginning of the month and participating as a ride leader in the launch of the Bristol project and Steve having set up a taster day with the help of Quest 88 at Tretherras and he saw for himself, the smiles on the participant's faces just getting bigger and bigger as they realised that indeed, they could do this!

Together we can do this and it will bring a lot of happiness into a lot of people's lives if we do! Just giving people that little bit of independence means so much to them. We already have a head start with one qualified ride leader and two or three bikes to get us going (at the Delaware Outdoor Education Centre near Callington) .. from little acorns etc. and one will but we need your help to achieve it!!

More recently, as a result of another friend who has a three wheeler recumbent as it is the only way she can still enjoy cycling having had a serious brain injury in a car crash about 20 years ago, I have discovered a TANDEM recumbent no less from Westcountry Recumbents., now you have to admit, that is pretty cool! And the chairman of CTC's All Ability Cycling Forum is an amputee but that doesn't stop him either!

About 5 months prior to his untimely death, I had a conversation with Lord George and this is what he said to me .. "I remember when the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Ed Balls, visited the Sir James Smith School in Camelford and he specifically referred to the provision of sport outside of schools that must benefit the community as a whole, including those with disabilities. The Wheels for All Centre in Cornwall is a wonderful way of addressing that objective and I wholeheartedly support the project. I hope that the commercial sector in Cornwall will feel able to contribute to the funding of these specialised bikes. " (Dictated over the phone for a press release that never actually saw the light of day.)

Since then however his widow, Lady George has offered to take up the baton and continue to support our endeavours and naturally, we accepted! As a result of there now being one trained ride leader in county, we are now one step closer to achieving our objective and opening cycling up.

For more in depth information and how you can help to achieve this, please click here.

Graeme Willgrass, is a Sustrans Ranger just over the border, next year (2011) will cycle 4000 miles around the mainland UK to raise money for the charity www.sustrans.org.uk. Sustrans have created 12,000 miles of National Cycle Network, one third of which is traffic free, enabling people of all ages and abilities to enjoy stress-free travel to work & school, as well as leisure activities in a peaceful ,low-carbon way.

Why 'Cycle for Health'? Four years ago, Graeme suffered a major breakdown, losing everything in the process, including his teaching career. Very slowly, this is changing and are beginning to take effect. Exercise and cycling in particular are a big part of this. Graeme has always done lots between bouts of illness, but this is now part of managing and progressing his life. Since then he has struggled to come to terms with this and the fact that he has Bi-polar disorder.

Mental health is still an area of great fear and stigma, but it needn't be. So, he has a plan (gulp!) for what will be the biggest adventure of his life. Please visit his Just Giving page and help him reach his target, email him or wave if you see a funny looking bike pulling a trailer as it will probably be Graeme., there are not too many people who use a trailer with a folding bike after all. He also has a blog at http://roundbritain-cycleforhealth.blogspot.com/

During the summer holidays and amongst other projects occurring, Wendy was a volunteer Team Attaché at the 2009 UK School Games in Wales, with cycling being introduced as a new discipline this year. Held at Newport's Velodrome the idea is to give up and coming athletes a taste of what it is like to be part of the British squad, travelling from the Athletes Village in Cardiff each day. However there was just one area of the entire United Kingdom which was not represented and that was the South West. Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and every other area in the UK were represented but the SW peninsula, which was conspicuous by it's absence!

Instructors from the SW Cooperative continue working together with the Schools Sports Partnerships, in both Devon and Cornwall. Wendy is returning to the Tavistock area next week at the behest of parents of children just too young to qualify for funding from the Youth Sports Trust, meanwhile she also has continued involvement in projects such as Plymouth's BikeLinks but is still hoping to set up a cycling track and all ability cycling centre here in Cornwall. Negotiations are already underway with the relevant respective parties, in terms of funding and hopefully location as well.

The most recent development in that respect is that a significant land owner has contacted us to ask what exactly we have in mind .. the blueprint in our mind's eye has been laid out and British Cycling are now in touch with them directly .. fingers crossed that they will go for it - then Wendy Houvenagel will not have to travel up to Manchester all the time if it does pan out!!

Quest 88 attended the Mineral Tramways Mining Trails Celebration when Champion track cyclist
Wendy Houvenaghel performed the official opening ceremony at Elm Farm Coast to Coast Cycle Hire on Saturday 26 September 2009

Quest 88 has a passion for identifying and developing products that promote inclusion, fitness and fun for everyone, regardless of ability. They are a UK based company specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of therapy, mobility and rehabilitation equipment for children and adults. The company has a strong reputation for meeting special user requirements and delivering innovative products that make a genuine contribution to the welfare of it's customers.

Quest 88's All Ability Leisure product range includes leisure equipment suitable for individual use or group activities. It includes: adapted go-karts, tricycles, running bikes and companion bikes. These products enable people with many different levels of physical and educational ability to participate in activities that promote fitness, fun and inclusion.

The bikes that they have as a company, are Draisin Specialist bikes which includes the Draisin Plus, the Twister, Lotse, Duo and Relaxino Relax to name just a few. Another possible source for all ability bikes as and when we get the centre up and running!

Extracts taken from the minutes of the meeting of the Forum
held at Park United Reformed Church, Reading, on September 5th 2009

.. was the name decided up after considerable deliberation between the committee and forum at the weekend in Reading. A considerable amount of discussion took place about the name of the group. The consensus was that the Forum is promoting cycling to everyone, not just CTC members, but concentrates particularly on disabled people. There was further discussion on the meaning of disability and of the terminology which is proper to express a comprehensive approach to disability.

The definition of disability in the 2005 Disability Discrimination Act was considered to be sufficiently inclusive for our use and so was adopted. The prime activity of the Group will be to support disabled people in becoming cyclists and to network with disabled people, disability organisations, and cycling bodies to develop cycling for as many people as possible. By campaigning for inclusivity in cycling the group will bring an additional voice to those already promoting the matter.

The group's purpose is to make it as easy as possible to access, experience and enjoy the benefits of cycling. To promote and demonstrate what is possible, and to help everyone to enjoy cycling. To this end, after research and listening to others, the chair suggested the following topics for the coming year:

Barriers – looking at ways of dealing with some of the physical obstructions that particularly effect disabled cyclists (especially those using trikes or similarly wide machines) but which do not have an effect for cyclists using two-wheelers.

One classic example of problems was described by one member who is a hand cyclist .. and I quote "I've just completed a ride from Morecambe to Bridlington which is going to be a new Sustrans route - 'The way of the Roses'. This was a Sustrans test ride and the angle that I had for feedback was as a hand cyclist. I highlighted all the obstacles put in my way and I think I raised awareness of the seriousness of the issue. The route through York where I live was the worst part of the route for access, not just for me but for anyone with a non-standard cycle, including panniers.

I had already arranged to meet with the cycling officer and think we have agreement to change one gate recently locked by Sustrans. I am about to start an audit of the barriers in York with a Sustrans representative with a view to getting them removed. Taking part in the ride was useful as a demonstration of the seriousness of my intent and the significance of the barriers. I've read the relevant sections of the DDA Code of Practice and am confident that they don't have a leg to stand on. There is a clear obligation to identify and to remove barriers. Has anyone already done work on this?"

Public Transport – investigating the difficulties that are encountered by disabled people when attempting to travel with a specialist cycle on public transport, especially trains.

Specialist equipment – looking at ways of building expertise on funding sources for individuals and perhaps to produce a fact-sheet on funding, production of a further fact-sheet on VAT-free purchases of specialist equipment for disabled people from mainstream cycle dealers, attending mainstream cycling events to demonstrate the equipment that is available to disabled cyclists, developing a central source of information on projects and resources that are available to disabled cyclists, and collating a central database of activities that are taking place which include disabled cyclists.

Group Rides and Meetings – it was agreed that a prime purpose of the group would not be to promote local cycling activity as this is a national CTC Group unlike most others who have a local membership. However, such local activities are not precluded. Similarly, it will be unlikely that there will be many local meetings although the aim of holding a Group-organised holiday or conference during 2010, which was raised at the April meeting, was discussed.

There was mention of a conference which was being held by 'Wheels for All' in Sheffield in November – information on this will be distributed when it becomes available.

In general terms it was thought important that the Group develop a website which can become a valuable tool for promotion of disability cycling and for disseminating information. It was also decided that future meetings will be on a six-monthly basis having themed topics with external speakers or holidays with interesting rides.

The committee, who were nominated and elected on this occasion, will arrange the next meeting but as a formally-constituted CTC Group, it will be necessary to hold an AGM between October 15th and November 15th of this year.

CTC’s Inclusive Cycling Forum for Deaf and Disabled People (but also includes people with
long term health conditions).

13:18hrs, Thursday 16th April 2009

CTC’s Inclusive Cycling Group
At a workshop held in Reading the ‘CTC Disability Cyclist Forum’ decided they needed a new name and will now be known as CTC’s Inclusive Cycling Group. Among items discussed were initial plans for a CTC Conference to be held late in 2010 and an area on the CTC website where information can be posted.

Mission Statement.

The Forum aims to be the point for information, consultation and communication on all issues that are relevant and important to members throughout the country.

The Forum will strive to:

Exchange information relating to cycling for disabled people and people with long term health conditions on a regular basis.

Mount a campaign to have bikes accepted as mobility aids.

Promote cycling as a means of transport, leisure and exercise for disabled people and people with long term health conditions.

Contribute to the wider disability cycling agenda, thus influencing policy at a local, regional and national level.

Terms of Reference:

1. The Forum shall meet twice a year in Reading; the meeting shall be open to all members.

2. The Forum is open to all CTC members who have a disability or long term health conditions.

3. The Forum may extend membership to other people who may have relevant experience and services to offer.

4. The Forum shall have a chair and minute taker.

5. The Forum will regularly review its role and its membership and will agree priorities for future meetings in consultation with Forum members

**Use the calculator to work out figures for yourself at http://cyclescheme.co.uk/employee,calculator.htm

Inclusive Cycling Forum

00:01hrs, Wednesday 1st April 2009

On Saturday March 28th, a group of likeminded cycling enthusiasts came together from
across the country, to discuss promoting 'all ability cycling' and
how best to get it out into the public domain.

The inaugural meeting of a new cycling forum, set up to meet the needs of anyone who wishes to become involved in cycling irrespective of their circumstances, was held in Reading at the weekend.

The CTC members who met, all have an interest in promoting cycling to anyone who either wishes to return to cycling after an absence or try it for the first time. This includes catering for anyone who has any kind of impairment which they believe, might prevent them from participating in an activity like cycling. An example would be someone with different, or additional needs, such as those with mental health issues, sensory impairment, learning difficulties, or any physical/emotional needs that make it difficult for them to be included in cycling and other activities.

The group, which includes the local CTC Regional Cycling Champion, a National Standard Instructor from Cornwall and members of the CTC, some of whom have to contend with such issues as ME throws up, all plan to meet again in the autumn. Their itinerary will be to again share their ideas and experiences, with a view to progressing the promotion of cycling for everyone and the possibility of a conference on the subject in 2010. Another of the groups' aim is to campaign to ensure that a bike is recognised as a mobility aid - as one of the members proved, himself being an amputee with his bike replacing a wheel chair or crutches and was almost part of him in the way a prosthetic leg would aid mobility.

A good cross section of 'all ability' cyclists were represented by both more able bodied cyclists and those who are also amputees together with representatives from organisations such as WiZZBiKE, Wheels for Wellbeing, London Cycling Campaign, Cycling Projects and Handcycling UK, the latter of

which, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, is patron.

The CTC themselves, are involved with a project called Life Cycle which is part of an EU Public Health programme. It will provide cycling for health courses where possible in partnership with General Practitioners as well as doctors and hospitals or other health referral schemes. The courses will be flexible in terms of the individual’s fitness, health and age. Their involvement will focus particularly on older people and hard-to-reach groups in four selected regions, those being Sheffield, Wolverhampton, Reading and Swindon involving Black and Ethnic Minority women, mental health and physical health groups. The aim of this project is to establish Cycling for Health schemes as a recognised referral scheme.

As an organisation, the CTC are committed to a vibrant and broad base of cyclists that encompass all sectors of the community and aim to make cycling accessible, safe and enjoyable and to develop a new cycling culture that enriches lives and communities. They have a membership of 60,000 people and bring together the largest, most dynamic, most diverse, most passionate group of cyclists in the UK.

Originally it had been hoped that the Cornish ‘Wheels for All’ centre might have been launched on 1^st April 2009 but that has been delayed as it is still very much a work in progress. However, with ongoing feasibility studies revolving around funding, local authority support, and availability of suitable locations amongst the things needing to be taken into consideration before the trustees of the charity, Cycling Projects, are in a position to make any decisions. Plymouth is another potential venue for such a centre so in reality, there are two possibilities.

In the interim, anyone looking for directional advice on specially adapted bikes in particular, take a look at Velovision, which is a quarterly cycling magazine celebrating cycle culture worldwide. It is a magazine for those passionate about cycling, and whose interest is in the practical applications of cycling, bikes as a transport solution, and cycling as a bridge between like-minded people across the world.

It contains authoritative technical material, intriguing stories of cycling people and communities from across the world, cycling art, history and literature, and of course the latest from the world of specialised cycle design: work bikes, recumbents, folders, family cycling and more. Suppliers of such bikes are Wise Wheels and Quest 88, which is a UK based company specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of therapy, mobility and rehabilitation equipment for children and adults. Also another comprehensive guide on the manufacturers of different adapted bikes can be found at Bentrider Online.

For anyone who isn't able to manage a two-wheeled bike, for whatever reason, the Cycling Project has a variety of equipment in different sizes for you to try.

Wheels for All is part of a registered charity and the first donation including Gift Aid, is currently winging it's way to us - our benefactor knows who he is but wishes to remain anonymous, however we still owe him a big vote of thanks for getting the project off the ground in this respect .. with a massive £500!! Until such time as the financial side has been sorted, please be advised that cheques should be made to "Wheels for All' and sent to the parent charity in Warrington at:

Cycling Projects,
Priory Court,
Buttermarket Street,
Warrington, WA1 2NP
Tel: 01925 234213

For further information please contact Ian Tierney who is the manager of both Cycling Projects and Wheels for All, on behalf of the Board of Trustees ..

Company limited by Guarantee Reg No 2618968 Reg. Charity No. 1003309 VAT No. 673 668294

December 2008 Update

Another letter of support for the facility ..

Hi Wendy

I am disabled and live near Penryn. As disability came to me in middle age, I like many other able-bodied people thought and assumed the disabled were adequately catered for. What a surprise I found when I became disabled.

I still try and have days out with my young family, this year I decided to try hand cycling. After discovering the price of a hand cycle, I decided to try and hire one for a day to see if I could cope with cycling again, I could not find one for hire in Cornwall. Nor was one to have been available during the Festival of Cycling at the road shows, having directly contacted the events team running it so we didn't go.

I still camp, sail, and I am a member and Trustee of Disability Cornwall. One of the Charities objectives is to promote and encourage the full inclusion of people with disabilities. As well as the health benefits of cycling, the benefit of being able to be included in a day out is very important and positive for the disabled.

Equality is at the heart of Disability Cornwall, we produce the counties only disability lifestyle magazine DISCOVER. I think the Wheels for All cycle centre in Cornwall is necessary and will be well used.

(Name and address supplied)

We are also looking into the feasibility of setting up a scheme to help with the fundraising to purchase the bikes, on the lines of contributing 'X' amount which would cover the cost of a wheel or pedals or similar in the same way as one can adopt a seal at Gweek, as there may well be individuals who would also like to contribute as well as the local businesses we hope will buy into the project, supporting the local community.

The cost of a single bike is is somewhat prohibitive to the average person, especially in the current financial climate, however developing such a scheme may not be so we are also looking into how best to go about that. The parent charity will hold any donations on our behalf until we are ready, so it is possible for individuals to make donations. It also means that we can reclaim tax allowances etc. in the form of 'Gift Aid' so as to benefit fully from anything that we receive.

'But' and there had to be one, the opening of the facility has to be momentarily put on hold .. however we are also still looking to run taster sessions sooner rather than later., the hows, whens and wherefores are still to be decided though so keep watching this space ..

Someone once said "the impossible we do most days after all., but miracles take a little longer" and that is exactly where we are at right now ... it is something that WILL still be going ahead in the fullness of time, especially given both the need and demand for it, we just cannot be sure exactly when it will be but hopefully at some stage during the summer of 2009. All new ventures have teething problems but it is nothing insurmountable given the wonderful community spirit of Cornish residents.

Unfortunately after a recent survey, it transpires the original proposed site for the Wheels for All centre is not wholly suitable, so momentarily the project is on hold whilst we investigate possible solutions to the problem and potential alternatives in the mid Cornwall area if all else fails. Also somewhere where we can store the bikes and then hire a van to take them to other areas, again the journey time would be approximately the same wherever that might be in the county.

In an ideal world this is the kind of site we would be looking for., and it's a very tall order however, given how Cornwall tends to be a resourceful county, anything is possible .. ..

A flat surface, where people can be initially assessed for a good cycle to try. Ideally close to where we are also storing the bikes so we don’t loose time running to and from the storage facility and/or van.

A smooth concrete, tarmac, or synthetic rubber based (an athletics track for example) for people to cycle on but not grass., or an area the size of at least one tennis court, preferably two.

Room for storage, many of the other centres in the north use a shipping container or similar so an area where we could put something that size.

A wheelchair accessible toilet

Ideally a café otherwise access to an electricity point and cold water.

Good parking away from the cycling area so the schools can come in minibuses.

A nice shady corner or building where we can do the paperwork such as registering those attending the session (so the papers don’t blow away!)

Somewhere away from the general public (at least for when people get on the cycles) so there’s a bit of privacy.

And what happens if it rains? We would run sessions in most weathers – if there is torrential rain or snow can we get the use of a facility such as a sports hall?

A van hire company that would help us with sponsorship of a van at favourable rates to be able to take the bikes to alternative locations.

Any offers of help would be gratefully received ...

Lord George and Newscaster Jon Snow, (better known for his bright coloured ties and socks) together with Lady Mary Holborow are backing 'Wheels for All', which will provide adapted bikes and accessible routes for disabled and able bodied cyclists. Cornwall is to get the new facility and will be the only county in the entire south west to have its own Wheels for All centre to allow people with disabilities to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Lady Mary Holborow, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, is very supportive. “I admire those involved for their drive and enthusiasm and I wish it every success. Cornwall is a wonderful county and I’m so pleased that it will lead the region in providing a cycling facility that directly addresses issues of equality and diversity. Our motto is for 'One and All' and this is a perfect example of that noble aspiration being put into action.”

St Tudy resident and former Governor of the Bank of England, Eddie George, also endorses Wheels for All and says: “I remember when the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Ed Balls, visited the Sir James Smith School in Camelford and he specifically referred to the provision of sport outside of schools that must benefit the community as a whole, including those with disabilities. The Wheels for All Centre in Cornwall is a wonderful way of addressing that objective and I wholeheartedly support the project. I hope that the commercial sector in Cornwall will feel able to contribute to the funding of these specialised bikes."

Jon Snow, the Channel 4 newscaster and President of the CTC (Cyclist’s Touring Club), when approached about the project by Wendy Creed, whom he had presented an award to 18 months earlier, said: “It looks and sounds amazing., I'd be honoured indeed to be your patron but am very conscious that it will be very hard indeed to get down to participate .... best wishes, Jon”

Its opening was originally planned for 1st April 2009 but before that happens funds need to be raised to pay for a selection of specially crafted bikes and related safety equipment to add to the two powered trikes already donated to the scheme. The machines can cost between £1,500 and £4,000 per model. The cycles allow, for example, people to pedal with their arms or for a couple to ride two abreast on the same machine. The latter is ideal for a carer who wants to enjoy the experience with the person they care for and includes those who are either deaf or blind.

The bikes are very expensive and that is where the local businesses come in - any company or individual donating the cost of or sponsoring a bike (including maintenance costs), would then get a plate on that particular bike, promoting their business. There will be a a nominal charge for the use of the bikes to maintain them and eventually replace them.

Ian Tierney from the Cycling Project (and founder of Wheels for All) said “We are excited to have the opportunity to expand the 'Wheels For All' network. We are always thrilled to encourage new participants in an activity that is fun and healthy. Cycling can be adapted so that everybody has the opportunity to engage with other community groups. There is currently no centre for disability cycling in Cornwall, this centre is a fantastic opportunity for the area.”

Recently a letter of support was received from a teacher at Doubletrees School in St. Blazey. It reads as follows:

I am writing in interest to your proposed facility "Wheels for all Centre" in Cambrose.

I currently work as a teacher at Doubletrees School and Hostel. We are a Special needs school, with around 80 pupils of all abilities. I run one afternoon session a week cycling with some of the more able children on the Sustran cycle paths around Eden.

My students get a huge joy from these cycling sessions, which boosts their self-esteem as well as fitness. To be able to access this type of facility for wheelchair users and the less able would be fantastic. As a school and Hostel we would hugely benefit from such a facility.

Wheels for All Cornwall will be operated as a partnership. Charlie Allen, who developed a similar project in south east London in conjunction with Ian Tierney of Cycling Projects, will be working with Bikeability accredited instructor Wendy Creed, Euan Mahy, Director of Mobilise and the Bike Barn's Roger Knight to get the centre ready.

Charlie says: “Cycling is a great activity and is not limited to the fully able bodied. The use of adapted machines at a dedicated Wheels for All Centre is proof that absolutely everyone can enjoy and benefit from the thrill of being on a bike. We can widen that experience to Cornwall and we are really looking forward to welcoming people who come to enjoy the experience.”

Roj Knight says: “I took over Elm Farm with a mission to get as many people in Cornwall as possible on their bikes. That includes people with disabilities and Wheels for All is the perfect way to achieve that.”

Independent cycle instructor Wendy Creed has been the driving force behind bringing Wheels for All to Cornwall. She says: “I’ve been in touch with a Lancashire based charity called Cycling Projects which has been running sessions for people with disabilities for a while. Their head, Ian Tierney, advised me on how to go about it and I’m so excited that the project is taking off. But this is only the beginning and what we really need is money. The bikes are highly specialised and very expensive so really we’re relying on the generosity of the people of Cornwall, and business here too, to donate money to this worthy project.”

With every day it is gathering momentum ... Lord George helped us with this press release as did Lady Mary, Jon Snow has agreed to become a patron of the Kernow WfA project and Charlie has met up with Sean Lally, Director of The Bike Doctor, who also has Cornish roots with his wife originally from Penzance as well as family in Polruan and are keen to also become involved., we already have Sustrans on board and Euan Mahy who is involved with Mobilise and Pedal/Stroll back the years. This is looking better and better with each day that passes.

If any local businesses would like to give a donation towards purchasing the bikes we need, which are expensive being so specialised or just sponsor the one bike and have their company's name on the plate on the bike, then please contact Charlie as CharlieCornwall@aol.com just as we would also ask any other expressions of interest, as per the ones shown below the photos, also be addressed to Charlie and Wendy has just started her first year at Uni to get some more ideas on the coaching front. Any cheques should be made payable to 'Wheels 4 All' and sent to the parent charity in Warrington with it clearly stated that it is a donation towards the Cornish project.

To give you an idea of what we will be looking to acquire so we can do what it says on the tin so to speak, without exception, these photos show just a few of the types of bikes that will be available in terms of design types however the bikes themselves may well be different to the ones shown - this is just to give you an idea .......... these will include wheelchair tandems or trandems centre right (which are already available for hire on the Camel Trail at both Padstow Bike Hire and Bridge Bike Hire), hand cycles for those with good upper body strength (extreme left) .... the Hase Kettwiesel recumbent trike (centre left) is however, powered by cycling normally using one's feet. There will also be bikes with adult stabilisers and tagalongs as well as the side by side tandems (extreme right).

There is actually a local firm of 10 years based in Falmouth who make recumbent bikes, called ICE which stands for Inspired Cycle Engineering and hopefully we will be able to avail ourselves of their products from the recumbent angle although they don't have the hand crank variety sadly. The ICE brochure should you be interested, is something that can be downloaded if you click on the link. However there is another link we have found which is the Handcycling Association UK who not only organise hand cycling events but also help to sell on second hand hand cycles such as the one below on the left.. Another manufacturer of such bikes is Draisin GmbH. The bad news .... each bike is well into 4 figures., they need to be, being so specialised so please, support what we are aiming to achieve???

And this is just one reaction to the proposal, received June 2008 who also asked about bikes for people with disabilities at the Royal Cornwall Show

Hi Wendy

Many thanks for the information. You are setting something up which has been long overdue. A group which you may or may not have thought of who would benefit from more stable bikes would be those with dyspraxia. An opportunity to try stabilizers designed for the older child/adult would be helpful as they may then purchase for their own use as the initial outlay can be very high.

Thanks

Carol

(Who is an Occupational Therapist and has worked with special needs and learning disabilities so knows her onions)

The Cycling Project believes that the pleasure of cycling should be available to all.

"Wheels for All!", an initiative created by The Cycling Project for the North West, is working with partners throughout the UK to base specialist hand cycles, and adapted bicycles and tricycles at suitable sites with good facilities. Ian Tierney from the Cycling Project said “We are excited to have the opportunity to expand the 'Wheels For All' network. We are always thrilled to encourage new participants in an activity that is fun and healthy. Cycling can be adapted so that everybody has the opportunity to engage with other community groups. There is currently no centre for disability cycling in Cornwall, this centre is a fantastic opportunity for the area.”

By working in partnership, "Wheels for All!" enables disabled people and those with differing needs to enjoy cycling and benefit from greater independence and mobility. Hand cycles are extremely expensive, but "Wheels for All!" ensures that they are available for a minimal hire fee. Through cycling, disabled people have the opportunity to access the countryside, enjoying healthy exercise and freedom to participate in outings independently or with their family and friends. Hand cycling can be enjoyable indoors too, for example, with a taster day in a club hall or a skills session at a leisure centre.

Disabled children and teenagers particularly are interested in doing "their bit" for the environment and also enjoy joining in cycling proficiency classes. Pensioners are delighted to learn that hand cycling can be an answer to their leisure and recreational mobility problems. The Cycling Project's busy Information and Advisory Service, which deals with all cycling issues, provides valuable support, answering disabled people's queries on such issues as safety and suitability of various cycles. The research it carries out helps to ensure that cycling opportunities for disabled people continue to improve.

Bicycles with Stabilisers A boost to confidence, whatever your age.
Tricycles All the fun of cycling on three wheels, with the option of a supported or recumbent seat.
Hand cycles More cycling fun. The rider powers the front wheel by hand - great for a wide range of abilities.
Quad cycles and Go Karts Cycling fun on four wheels.
Bicycles Made for Two Fun with a friend on the Wheel easy side by side hand cycle or regular Side by Side cycle or a Harmony Trandem which is a hand cycle or wheelchair at the front and bicycle at the back or perhaps the Kettwiesel recumbent tandem.

Cycles can be used both indoors and out - enjoy the countryside on a safe off-road trail or practice your skills in a sports hall - the choice is yours! The Cycling Project works with manufacturers to research, adapt and design new equipment. New types of cycles to meet your needs are regularly introduced.

• Disabled children and adults can join in with their family and friends.
• The elderly can rediscover the pleasure of cycles.
• Those with learning difficulties can enjoy mastering a new skill.
• Those who are temporarily disabled need not be inactive.
• All will enjoy the experience and gain the health benefits of active exercise.

What is it? Health on Wheels is an 8 week cycling programme to support and encourage people on the Exercise on Prescription scheme to stay alive and have fun.

How does it work? An experience cycle trainer ( Ian Tierney) will work with the person and determine what you need to get back on your bike. Most people start by going on short rides on a one to one basis, usually close to their home. When you feel ready you will be able to join up with other people who are on the programme on more rides. The sessions last for between one and two hours.

- Advice on cycling and health
- Where to ride - either off road or on it
- Basic bike maintenance and repairs
- Safer cycling roads ( optional)
- Ideals for getting from A to B on and bike and more

What happens at the end of the course? That's up to you. The current groups have organised themselves into a cycling club to continue the rides.

What if I don't own a bike? We will bring bikes to the session if you don’t have access to one. If during the programme you wish to buy a bike, we will advise you and may be able to help you get a cost price bike.

But I'm returning to work. We are interested in hearing from anyone who is returning to work and thinks they may be able to travel all or part of their journey by bike. Just think - stay healthy through your journey to work, and probably save money too.

Five good reasons to cycle:

1.   Cycling exercises most of the muscles in your legs and bum – so it’s an excellent way to tone these areas.
2.   It’s a practical way to keep fit. 75% all personal journeys are less than 5 miles long – that’s half an hour on a bike.
3.   It’s cheaper than joining a gym! Bicycles require no MOT, no insurance, no licensing and above all no fuel. Bicycles can be parked almost anywhere for free.
4.   Switching short journeys from car to bicycle will benefit both your health and community. You'll be helping to reduce noise, air pollution and traffic congestion too.
5.   Riding a bike can help you maintain a healthy weight. Average cycling burns about 300 calories per hour and gives a level of fitness equivalent to being 10 years younger.

13:18hrs, Thursday 16th April 2009

Inclusive Cycling Forum

00:01hrs, Wednesday 1st April 2009

On Saturday March 28th, a group of likeminded cycling enthusiasts came together from across the country, to discuss promoting 'all ability cycling' and how best to get it out into the public domain.

On Saturday March 28th, a group of likeminded cycling enthusiasts came together from
across the country, to discuss promoting 'all ability cycling' and
how best to get it out into the public domain.