“I miss cycling and getting fresh air”
This is what we often hear from the older people we meet. Many of them no longer have the physical ability it takes to bike a trip down memory lane, to the park or just a trip around the community to feel that they are still alive. This is how the mission behind Cycling Without Age was made: We want to give older people the opportunity to feel the wind rush through their hair.
The many trishaws around the world are waiting for you to step on the pedals as a pilot and get your older neighbours out to see the world again. You can book a trip online when you have the time, desire and the weather is in our favour because there aren’t any determined timetables. When the trip starts, you and your passengers can decide today’s destination.
If you have strong legs and feel like giving a bicycle ride through the city, to the forest, the waterfront or even down memory lane – then become a pilot with Cycling Without Age. Here, you can make a difference in a rewarding community while meeting new people and even getting some free exercise.
You
As long as you can ride a bicycle and a desire to help others, then there is plenty of space for you. Our pilots are everyone from directors to older people and students. All chapters worldwide have developed pilot training based on the five guiding principles and under the motto: “Hurry up slowly – turn softly”.
Ride safely
Everyone can learn to ride a rickshaw. If you are experienced on a bicycle or a cargo bike, then you won’t need much practise before you are on the road (or the bike path).
However, there are a few important rules and techniques that you should master before you ride off with passengers.
“Hurry up slowly, turn softly”
Cycling Without Age Stockton-on-Tees
As a volunteer Trishaw Pilot, you will help people get out and about in their local community aboard Trixie, our specially designed electric-assist trishaw.
You will safely pilot Trixie along planned and approved routes across the Stockton-on-Tees Borough, giving passengers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, experience their local community and, just as importantly, enjoy good company and conversation along the way.
Our passengers may include care home residents, older people, disabled people, people living with dementia, unpaid carers and people supported by local community organisations. We also take part in community events and activities across the Borough.
Pilots are responsible for helping passengers feel safe, comfortable and welcome throughout their ride, following our safety procedures and completing the appropriate checks before setting off.
You do not need previous experience of riding a trishaw. Full training and support will be provided before you begin piloting rides.
All pilots are required to watch a short, 10 minute introductory training video (available here) before attending a 2 hour in-person training session in the community which includes taking the trishaw for a short ride.
No specialist knowledge or previous experience is required as full Trishaw Pilot training will be provided.
We are looking for volunteers who:
Knowledge or experience of dementia, disability, health and social care or community work can be helpful, but is not essential.
We are looking for volunteers who are:
Above all, our Pilots should understand that a trishaw ride is about much more than getting from A to B. Taking time to chat, listen, share a laugh and help someone enjoy being out in their community is an important part of the role.
Volunteer Trishaw Pilots will be required to:
Appropriate training, guidance and ongoing support will be provided.