The bikes were selected for those in the best condition from Thameslink’s stocks of abandoned bikes. The mechanics at the council’s long-standing recycling scheme inspected and refurbished the bikes to ensure they were all in safe, roadworthy order. Thirty bikes have already been donated to staff at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital and Bedford Hospital, and now three have been donated, with Central Bedfordshire Council’s help, to staff at the smaller Biggleswade Hospital, which provides mental health services. The renovated bikes, which were presented to the staff on Tuesday 7 July at the hospital, were matched with specific workers who will really benefit from them.
One of the recipients is Tracy, who works as employment specialist. Tracy said: “I’m super excited to receive my recycled bicycle. As an employment specialist I am based within the community working alongside those individuals who are seeking their first steps into employment and enabling them to maintain structure and positivity within this transition. A bicycle will enable me to get around Biggleswade and Potton in maintaining one to one appointments.”
Ria, a social worker who also received a bike from the scheme said; “Sadly I had never learnt how to ride a bike but always wanted to. With this bike I can learn to ride at last and then use it to cycle to work, which will save money on travel and provide me with daily exercise.”
Claire, an assistant at Spring House, was delighted with her bike and said; “This is a great initiative and I’m so pleased to receive my bike which I’ll now be using to travel to and from work – it will save money on fuel, be good for the environment and will also keep me fit and healthy.”
Councillor Steven Watkins, Deputy Executive Director of Community Services said: “It’s really amazing that our bike recycling scheme is helping to transform the lives of key NHS workers, who have done - and continue to do - so much for us during this time of crisis. We want to do all we can to support them to get to and from work, to visit patients in the community, whilst also getting some valuable exercise. Riding a bike has so many benefits for our physical and mental health. It helps combat stress and anxiety. It’s great daily exercise and is the best mode of transport to maintain social distancing and avoid congestion.”
Tom Moran, Managing Director for Thameslink and Great Northern, said: “It’s fantastic working with our partners to support Bedfordshire hospital staff at this challenging time. As key workers ourselves, we’re proud to be supporting NHS staff in the communities we serve. At a time of great national challenge, we are proud to help keep Britain moving. Now, more than ever, is a time when we all need good neighbours, to stay connected and help each other out.”