Greater Manchester has seen the launch of England’s first Inclusive Cycling Network, designed to support people of all abilities – including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions or differing needs. The network aims to make cycling fun, social and empowering.
With dedicated centres in every borough, the initiative offers participants the chance to try a variety of adapted cycles in safe and supportive environments such as parks and sports centres. The range includes handcycles, tricycles, side-by-sides, tandems and recumbents, ensuring everyone can find a cycle that suits their needs.
Supervised sessions, led by trained staff, focus on helping people build confidence, independence and wellbeing through enjoyable, inclusive cycling experiences.
The Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network brings together 15 partners, including Wheels for All – the UK’s largest provider of inclusive cycling – and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM). Together, these organisations will collaborate to share expertise, tackle barriers, and create long-lasting opportunities for accessible cycling.
The network officially launched at Leigh Sports Village, during a Wheels for All session attended by Chris Boardman, England’s National Active Travel Commissioner and the charity’s new patron, alongside Dame Sarah Storey, Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner. Participants enjoyed the freedom of non-standard cycles on the outdoor track, celebrating the joy and empowerment that cycling can bring.
Boardman said: ‘Cycling has countless mental and physical health benefits and everyone should have the right to participate if they choose, regardless of bank balance or geography.
‘I am pleased to be part of the launch of the country’s first inclusive cycling network and I hope this is a model that is replicated nationwide. I’ve witnessed first-hand the impact of making cycling accessible in local communities, it is often the highlight of someone’s week – that’s why the work of Wheels For All and the delivery partners is so vital.’
Volunteer Eileen Powrie captured the spirit of the day, saying, ‘It puts the joy back in life. ‘Another participant, Andria Wright, added: ‘They’ve changed my life – it’s given me a purpose. My mental health has improved so much.’
Through initiatives like the Bike Buddy programme, TfGM and partners hope to create a lasting cycling culture where everyone – regardless of age, ability, or background – can experience the simple joy of getting on a bike.
Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: ‘Cycling really can be for everyone and the Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network is a testament to the work being done to enable more people to try the cycle that works for them.
‘We know from the recent Cycling UK report that when disabled people are given the opportunity to cycle, the benefits are almost immeasurable, from improved physical health and mental well-being to greater access to places and opportunities, and far less instances of loneliness and social isolation.
‘Building confidence for cycling is not always that easy and across the network of inclusive cycling centres here in Greater Manchester, staff and volunteers are providing bespoke sessions for people with a wide variety of needs. As well as being able to try different types of cycle the network’s 15 partner organisation are also providing support with cycle training, navigation skills and cycle maintenance.
‘It is fantastic to see the work being done to enable more people to learn to cycle independently and as we build the Bee Network cycling routes, we know we will be able to support more people using different types of cycle to make their short everyday journey with confidence and freedom.’
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