Bolton bike charity teams up to help people into work

James Moller, Daniel Dutton and Janet Taylor at Cycle 2 Health have joined forces with Bolton’s Working Wardrobe, providing transport to those unable to get to work while the latter provides suitable clothing for job interviews.

The scheme will equip chosen individuals with a free refurbished bike to get to work and clothing including shoes and toiletries.

Cycle 2 Health has already helped countless people in need of bikes who may not have any other means of transport.

James said: “We give them a bicycle, it’s free to use and can use it as and when.

“There are no issues as they will not be late because of trains or buses, and it also keeps them fit as well.

“It was just good nature from us, and going from business to business, it makes it easier to help people.

“People that go to Working Wardrobes are struggling so they could do with the help.”

James spoke about the difference it made to those they helped.

He said: “You notice it straight away that they are quite thankful.

“A lot of people are really grateful when they are picking their bikes up and we want to keep them positive, so they’ve got suited and booted and transport.

“It gives everyone a fair chance, and confidence.

“We are making a difference, but if everyone can do one per cent and improve someone’s life by one per cent, it’s a big gathering then.”

Bikes are donated or dropped off to James and his team, who then refurbish it to give away.

Working Wardrobes spotted the good work James, and his team were doing at Cycle 2 Health and saw an opportunity to help people with transport.

Working Wardrobe is one of a number of schemes set up by Bolton at Home’s support its tenants gain the confidence to look for and secure employment.

The service is available to anyone of working age who has secured an interview and not just Bolton at home tenants.

The team will refer people to Cycle 2 Health for a bike.