Active Travel project celebrated for inclusivity
A VOLUNTEER has been recognised for their work and dedication to an Active Travel initiative in Glasgow, giving women and non-binary people an opportunity to learn how to cycle.
A dedicated member of Women and Non-binary project at Bike for Good has been recognised as the winner of Active Travel Volunteer of the Year at the Paths for All 2023 Volunteer Awards.
Set up in 2010, the programme aims to improve the physical and mental health of members through improving their confidence in cycling, teaching members bike maintenance skills and making cycling enjoyable for everyone.
Aileen Webster, Coordinator of the Active Travel Department at Bike for Good, said: “People who attend our group often have never had the opportunity to cycle before, so the group gives them a chance to not only learn a new skill but socialise and be more active.
“Dedicated volunteers are an essential part of the programme and keep it going, even when funding is an issue in the past.
“We are delighted that a volunteer in our group is being recognised for her dedication to volunteering, positive attitude and selflessness. It really makes a difference to the Women and non-binary project, encouraging more women to cycle more often and use their bike for short, local journeys.
“Active Travel is becoming increasingly import and we hope that groups like ours encourage more people to get out cycling.”
Bike for Good has three Community Hubs in Glasgow, and runs four weekly workshops as well as monthly drop-ins and led cycle rides aimed at women and non-binary people.
Founder and CEO of Bike for Good, Gregory Kinsman-Chauvet: “Since our establishment in 2012, Bike for Good has always placed a strong emphasis on volunteering and diversity. We are thrilled that one of our volunteers has been recognized for their contributions.
“Our volunteers are not just helpers, but also our friends, supporters, and ambassadors. We are truly grateful for their dedication to the cycling community.”
The volunteer was celebrated at Paths for All’s 14th annual awards ceremony at the Scottish Parliament on 27 September.
Hosted by the BBC Scotland’s Fiona Stalker, with awards presented by sponsoring MSP Nicola Sturgeon, the event recognised 10 groups and individuals throughout Scotland who have gone the extra mile to keep their communities active.
Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport “Supporting people in Scotland to walk and wheel is a key part of our vision of a country where more people are more active, more often.
“A huge number of highly motivated and skilled people are helping us deliver this vision, especially the passionate volunteers who do so much to help others overcome challenges to participation and facilitate activities across the country.
“They really are inspirational, the recognition from Paths for All in these Awards is very well deserved.”
Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive Officer at Paths for All, said: “Every year I am blown away at the number of incredible groups and volunteers out there determined to make a difference. The work carried out by volunteers is directly improving the nation’s physical, mental and social health, reducing social isolation and loneliness and helping people make more environmentally friendly lifestyle choices.
“It’s been fantastic hosting the awards at the Scottish Parliament again this year, I always enjoy getting to socialise with our amazing volunteers and hear first-hand about the invaluable contributions they have been making.
“Thank you to everyone for their efforts and ongoing dedication.”
Paths for All works with the Scottish Government and 30 partners to support and deliver national policies, such as the National Walking Strategy and other ‘active travel’ initiative to improve the mental, social and physical health of the country.
The charity awards thousands of pounds worth of grants to worthwhile projects that improve health, promote walking and improve environments for people to be active in – making for a happier, healthier, greener Scotland.
To find out more about Bike for Good, visit: https://www.bikeforgood.org.uk/
A full list of Volunteer Award winners 2023 can be found on Paths for All’s website: http://www.pathsforall.org.uk/volunteerawards
