Bike rides to help prevent isolation
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Rediscovering a love of cycling is key to tackling isolation and loneliness among elderly people, according the organisers of a new initiative.
Guests at Contact the Elderly were invited to an afternoon tea hosted by the British Red Cross on July 22.
The two charities teamed up with Cycling Without Age, which provides free rides to allow older people to experience cycling.
Volunteers took guests for a spin in specially-designed trishaws.
The event was held at Red Cross House in Cradlehall Business Park, where around 50 volunteers and guests enjoyed an afternoon of cake, company and cycling.
Contact the Elderly support officer Caroline Peter said: "Sunday’s event was a fantastic demonstration of how just a little time and kindness can make such a huge difference to the life of someone who is socially isolated and in need of company.
"The British Red Cross laid on a terrific party, with the Co-op donating much of the refreshments which was enormously appreciated. The attendance of Cycling Without Age was the icing on the cake and the guests were very enthusiastic about the opportunities to get out and about on a bike again."
Staff at the British Red Cross believe the initiative is an ideal way to combat isolation among elderly people.
Independent living service manager Sam Dolan said: "We had a wonderful day with Contact the Elderly, alongside projects such as Cycling Without Age.
"It shows that approaches to combat social isolation and loneliness can be delivered in both fun and innovative ways."
Cycling Without Age volunteers are already excited to continue their partnership with Contact the Elderly.
Operations manager Mick Heath added: "It was a brilliant afternoon out. We went along to give a demonstration and it was hugely successful.
"We gave 18 elderly folk a whirl on the bike and I’m quite sure we’ll be working with Contact the Elderly in future."
