Cardiff Council’s ReCYCLE scheme has provided more than 300 bikes and almost 150 scooters to children and young people from low-income families, the council has said, as the programme continues in its third year.
Part of the One Planet Cardiff climate response, the scheme supplies free refurbished bikes and scooters to remove financial barriers to active travel. Bikes are refurbished and reused to reduce waste while supporting school journeys.
Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning and Transport, Cllr Dan De’Ath, said: “I am incredibly proud of the success of the ReCYCLE scheme and the difference it is making to children and families across Cardiff. Distributing almost 450 bikes and scooters is a significant milestone and demonstrates the demand for initiatives that remove barriers to active travel.
“Every bike and scooter provided helps a child gain independence, improve their wellbeing and access new opportunities, while supporting our ambition for a greener, healthier Cardiff. It is fantastic to see the scheme continue to grow and make such a positive impact on communities across the city.”
Participants also receive safety equipment and support. The scheme has been particularly used by pupils from low-income households, those facing transport barriers and families who might otherwise rely on cars for the school run. The council said feedback from schools and families points to benefits for attendance, physical activity, mental wellbeing and social inclusion.
Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry, said: “ReCYCLE is making a real difference to children and young people across Cardiff. By helping pupils get to school safely and independently, the scheme is supporting attendance, wellbeing and confidence, while ensuring that families are not prevented from choosing active travel because of financial pressures. It is particularly encouraging to hear directly from schools and families about the positive impact the scheme is having on children’s daily lives, both in and beyond the classroom.”
One parent whose children received bikes said: “The bikes have been life-changing for my children. They cycle to high school together every day and have been able to attend events across the city that they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to reach. They’ve also enjoyed spending more time with friends on their bikes. They are much happier since receiving them.”
Another parent whose daughter received a bike said: “My daughter is delighted with her bike – it’s been difficult to get her off it. She has cycled to primary school since receiving it and is looking forward to cycling to high school with her friends in September. We love ReCYCLE!”
Pupils are referred by their school or other professionals. Successful applicants receive a voucher to choose a suitably sized bike, helmet and lock at the council’s bike supplier workshop. Travel support such as bus passes can be provided where needed, and the Road Safety Team can arrange delivery to school for pupils unable to attend the workshop. Free cycle training and basic bike maintenance skills are offered. When a child outgrows a bike it can be returned and exchanged for a larger one, with the old bike refurbished or recycled for parts.
