Residents of Hammersmith and Kensington can enjoy Bikeworks ‘cycle taxi with a difference’. The perfect vehicle for tackling loneliness.
This completely free service operating across North London, allows up to three passengers to enjoy gentle exercise and fresh air while making journeys in their neighbourhood in a social group- it has been proven to be beneficial for physical and mental health.
Bikeworks surveyed users of its previous cycle taxi pilot to explore the impact to people who used the cycle taxi. The results showed that people felt less isolated, they noted improvements in their health and wellbeing, that they were able to expand their boundaries and reach and felt freedom through improved mobility.
‘It was that sense of independence that I can achieve something again. Before I’d always been told no, no, no, no, no. It was like YES you CAN do this, let’s GO! I struggle to use public transport. The cycle taxi gives me a good sense of independence…’
Sonia – Old Oak resident
‘It was very good, it also happened to be a nice day, we were really happy to get out and be outdoors, and we were able to pedal and get some exercise and at the same time sit comfortably on the seats. It forces me to go out and cycle which is good for my health and wellbeing. I physically felt like I had worked out.’
Ali – White City resident
Designed for people seeking social connection, people with a health condition, those with restricted mobility or those with visual/sensory impairments, the taxi can fit 3 passengers, is easy to get on and off and can carry luggage such as shopping and walking aids. Passengers can choose whether to pedal and with an electric battery and friendly pilot with you all the way, it is hard not to have a good time.
Book a journey using the Book a trip button from Bikeworks’ website https://www.bikeworks.org.uk/cycle-taxi-service/. Or give Bikeworks a call on 020 8980 7998 (option 5).
The service can be used for leisure (to explore the neighbourhood) or practical purposes (to the doctor or shops)- even both at the same time and can be booked for taster sessions or return journeys.
