ConnectivityCSRTeam BuildingWellbeing
[ May 2, 2025 by Emmanuelle Bonnefond 0 Comments ]

Building Teams with Purpose — Now is the Time!

When I first became involved with Bikeworks nearly two decades ago, it was because I believed in something simple but powerful — that everyone deserves access to physical activity and all the benefits that come with it. I’ve lived with Generalised Anxiety Disorder for a long time, and back then I’d recently discovered that light exercise outdoors really helped me (and it still does). Through my day job, I also knew that many disabled people were experiencing barriers to participation.

 

At the time, I was working in supported employment – supporting people who faced barriers to work find meaningful roles. It was clear to me even then that inclusion isn’t just about getting someone in the door; it’s about what happens once they’re there. That early experience has shaped everything I’ve gone on to do in my career. Today, I work in the corporate world, strategically leading programmes designed to make large global workplaces more inclusive. Many people agree this is the right thing to do – but what I feel is being lost at the moment, amid heavy news coverage of I&D (or DEI), are the business benefits that come when all employees feel like they belong: increased innovation, reduced risk, and lower employee turnover.

 

That’s why, as Chair of Bikeworks, I see our team building offer not as a “nice to have,” but as a timely opportunity to bring your teams together with a shared purpose – to do something small to address social inequality that has a big impact. As part of the session, you’ll build bikes that are gifted to adults or children who face barriers to physical activity – such as disability, mental health conditions, or low income – helping to reduce isolation and support sustainable travel.

 

“Building a bike sounds technical!”

And it is – which means your whole team will likely be learning something new! Our instructors are trained to teach your team in an inclusive, supportive way. They don’t just help people bond – they help them build. And if you have team members who need adjustments or support, we can accommodate that.

In my experience (as someone who always dreads roleplays!), these sessions are enjoyable and practical – everyone’s moving around, and they really are a lot of fun.

 

How do I find out more?

📩 Book your session today → https://www.bikeworks.org.uk/build-a-bike-programme/

Let’s get your team moving – together.

 

Written by Carrie-Anne Adams, NED / Chair of Bikeworks

Build-a-BikeSocial Impact
[ April 1, 2025 by Emmanuelle Bonnefond 0 Comments ]

Unlock Confidence with Our Build-a-Bike Programme

At Bikeworks, we see cycling as more than just a way to travel – it’s a tool for enhancing wellbeing, physical activity, and building connections.

That’s why we’re excited to offer our Build-a-Bike programme: a two-day, hands-on experience where young people can learn new skills, boost their confidence, and leave with a bike they’ve assembled themselves. 🛠️

This programme isn’t just about bikes; it’s about equipping young people with independence, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime.

 

What’s Build-a-Bike?

Our Build-a-Bike programme is a fun and engaging two-day course where young people:

  • Learn essential bike maintenance skills
  • Build their own bike from the ground up
  • Gain confidence through safe cycling techniques (Bikeability certified!)

At the end of the course, each participant will take home their very own bike – a tangible reward for their hard work and effort.

 

Why Choose Build-a-Bike?
  • Learn Real-world Skills: On Day 1, participants get hands-on experience learning bike maintenance and repair, developing essential skills for a lifetime of cycling.
  • Boost Confidence: Day 2 focuses on safe cycling practices, with accredited instructors guiding participants through Bikeability training to boost their confidence on the road.
  • Tangible Rewards: Not only will they walk away with a bike they’ve built, but they’ll also receive locks, lights, and a Bikeability certificate to show off their new skills.
  • Independence: By investing in young people, we’re giving them the tools to become more independent and self-sufficient, while opening doors to new opportunities.

 

Making an Impact

We’re proud that our Build-a-Bike programme is already making a difference. In 2023, we were honored with the ‘Try Something New’ Award at the London Youth Awards, recognising our work alongside Spotlight Youth Centre to provide young people with innovative new opportunities.

Engagement is high, and feedback is overwhelmingly positive. This programme isn’t just about teaching bike skills – it’s about helping young people gain confidence, independence, and problem-solving abilities that will last a lifetime.

 

What participants and families are saying

📢 “My sister has a bike on the balcony that’s broken. I want to fix it now so we can go riding together.” (Young Person)

 

📢 “I’ve always wanted to teach my son how to ride a bike when he was younger. You know – that father and son bonding thing. I never got the chance. I’m so glad that he can finally ride a bike. Look at the smile on his face“ (Parent)

 

📢 “My daughter couldn’t stop talking about it. She even told me how to fix the brake problem I had on my own bike… This is an amazing programme.” (Parent)

 

Ready to Get Started?

📩 Book your session today → https://www.bikeworks.org.uk/build-a-bike-programme/

Let’s get your team moving – together.

CSRSocial ImpactTeam Building
[ March 10, 2025 by Emmanuelle Bonnefond 0 Comments ]

Pedal-Powered Team Building: The Ultimate Workplace Reset

Ditch the awkward icebreakers – Let’s build real connections

Let’s be honest – most team building activities fall flat. Awkward icebreakers, forced fun, or another day stuck in a conference room? That’s not what teams need, especially in today’s hybrid-working world.

Teams thrive when they genuinely connect. They need an experience that breaks down barriers, builds trust, and leaves a lasting impact – not just another “fun day out.”

That’s why forward-thinking companies are turning to Bikeworks’ for an impactful team building activity – we offer a fresh, inclusive, and energising way to bring people together.

🚴 No Lycra Required – Our sessions are designed for all abilities, so everyone can take part.

💡 Wellbeing & Teamwork – Movement and problem-solving challenges naturally strengthen relationships and reduce stress.

🌍 Make a Social Impact – Your booking directly supports Bikeworks’ inclusive cycling programmes for disabled people and under-served communities.

What businesses are saying

📢 “The best team-building event we’ve done. We left feeling more connected, motivated, and energised.” HR Lead, London Tech Firm

📢 “Bikeworks’ inclusive approach meant that everyone regardless of cycling ability could take part. That was a game-changer for us.” People & Culture Manager, Global Finance Firm

Team Building that creates impact

The best part? Your team-building session does more than boost morale – it funds life-changing cycling programs for those who need them most.

Last year revenue generated from team building activities supported Bikeworks in providing 22,000 visits to All-Ability Clubs AND 340 cycles to children and adults in the community!

🚴 Ready to Ride?

📩 Book your session today → https://teambuilding.bikeworks.org.uk/

Let’s get your team moving – together.

Written by Zoe Portlock, Co-CEO, Bikeworks