More than a bike: helping Will regain his independence
A partnership between Hillcrest Futures and community cycling charity Cycle Crieff has helped one person regain his independence, improve his wellbeing and enjoy greater freedom in everyday life.
For Will, who lives at Hillcrest Futures’ Tollcross View service in Edinburgh, having access to a bicycle is about much more than simply getting from one place to another. It’s an important part of maintaining his independence, staying active and looking after his physical and mental wellbeing.
Losing an important lifeline
Tollcross View provides supported temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness.
When Will’s late father’s bicycle was stolen from his accommodation, he lost an important means of getting around.
Due to injuries that make walking longer distances difficult, Will found it challenging to travel independently and use public transport. Without his bicycle, he was concerned about the impact on his physical and mental health.
Will explained:
“I don’t do well without a bike and can’t really get around, as I find it difficult to take the bus or walk long distances. I need a bike to maintain my physical and mental health.”
Working together to make a difference
Recognising how important cycling was to Will’s independence and wellbeing, his keyworker helped explore options for getting him back on a bike.
Thanks to support from Cycle Crieff, a community cycling charity that refurbishes and redistributes donated bicycles, Will received a refurbished bike, along with a jacket, helmet, lights and lock.
Cycle Crieff helps local people access affordable, sustainable transport while promoting health, wellbeing and independence. By giving donated bicycles a second life, the charity also creates social and environmental benefits within the community.
The partnership meant Will could get back to cycling without facing a lengthy wait for a replacement bicycle.
A positive impact on everyday life
The difference has been immediate.
With his bicycle, Will can now get out and about more easily, attend appointments, run errands and take part in everyday activities with greater freedom.
His keyworker explained:
“Will struggles to walk longer distances because of his injuries, so the bike has done wonders for both his physical and mental wellbeing. It gives him greater freedom and independence, making it easier to attend appointments and run errands.”
The bike has already helped Will complete journeys that would otherwise have been much more difficult. It also saves him time and energy, allowing him to focus on other important aspects of daily life, including going to the gym, cooking and maintaining his home.
For Will, having a bicycle again has made a meaningful difference to both his wellbeing and independence.
The power of partnership working
Will’s story highlights how practical support, combined with strong community partnerships, can make a lasting difference.
By working together, Hillcrest Futures and Cycle Crieff have helped remove a barrier to independence and given Will greater opportunities to stay active, connected and involved in everyday life.
A huge thank you to Cycle Crieff for their generosity and for helping make such a positive difference.