Community gears up to help NHS staff get to work

Community volunteers and businesses have joined together to source old and unused bikes that can be upcycled and used by key workers needing to travel to and from work.

Positive Cycles, which renovates old bikes and works with Transport for Greater Manchester, initially contacted Rochdale Council for help in sourcing bikes suitable for reuse last week.

Spotland and Falinge Councillor Rachel Massey has been coordinating the volunteer efforts and has so far seen more than 40 bikes already donated to frontline NHS staff across Rochdale, Bury and Oldham, with a further 20 heading to the repair shop for servicing. 

Cllr Massey said: “Our NHS staff are working incredibly hard and under testing conditions to look after us.

"Many of our caregivers don't have a car, and they want to avoid public transport at the moment so that they can socially distance themselves as per TfGM guidance.

"It's amazing how far a single tweet can go.

"After putting out a call for donations we very quickly had volunteers getting in touch.

"Residents, councillors and local community groups have all been getting involved."

One of the NHS frontline workers who contacted Cllr Massey to ask how she could get one of the bikes, said: “This is such a wonderful idea.

"Getting to and from work has been challenging in the last few weeks.

"It will be so much quicker riding home than walking.

"Thank you so much to all involved.”

As well as making commuting easier, it is hoped that access to the repurposed bikes will also offer a cheaper alternative to public transport.

These bikes will be used well after the coronavirus outbreak is over and will benefit the user’s fitness and mental wellbeing.

Martin Sutton, Positive Steps Manager, said: “Since we began in 2015, alongside our usual affordable bike sales, we’ve donated more than 400 bikes to those in need locally.

"Through our work with TfGM, the police and housing associations, donations made to us have also meant that we've been able to train a number of young people in bike maintenance leading to professional qualifications.

"We still need more bikes and if you have an unused one lurking at the back of the shed or in the garage then please do get in touch.

"We can collect them from your home."

To donate a bike, contact Martin at Positive Cycles by phone on 0161 621 9250 or email: martinsutton@positive-steps.org.uk

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