The Green Health Partnership, which is a collaboration between NHS Tayside, Dundee City Council, Volunteer Dundee and Dundee Voluntary Action, has launched a new initiative to get more people out on bikes.
The Re-DISCOVER Dundee pilot project aims to encourage cycling amongst older people, first-time cyclers and those who are returning to cycling for the first time in years.
The project has a particular focus on the aging population facing inactivity and isolation to join in guided rides on e-bikes as an opportunity to stay active and re-discover our nearby green spaces.
Each cycle ride will have a maximum of eight participants and will be led by trained volunteers who will ensure the group experience fun, safe and fully-supported cycle rides.
Director of Public Health Dr Drew Walker said “The Green Health Partnership is working closely with communities in Dundee and providing e-bikes and e-trikes to help people build their confidence to get out cycling. Our aim in Dundee is to have a vibrant city where people can walk and cycle as often as possible because it makes us feel better.”
The Green Health Partnership successfully secured £15,000 of funding from the Energy Saving Trust to buy two e-bikes, eight e-trikes and one trailer. The finding was announced by Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity during Climate Week in October and was matched in-kind by a combination of public and third sector organisations and community groups, in the form of storage facilities, equipment and bikes’ maintenance, volunteer management or promotion.
Dundee is the first city in Scotland to pilot e-trike rides. One of the advantages of e-trike riding is the increased stability, so even those who have poor balance or limited confidence in riding can enjoy a spin safely and comfortably. Also, e-trikes will give riders an extra boost if required, making cycling more accessible to more people, regardless of their fitness levels and ability.
Re-DISCOVER Dundee is encouraging community groups and individuals to get in touch with rediscover@volunteerdundee.org.uk if they wish to give it a try it or be part of the regular programme of cycle rides.
