Item 6. Revision and consolidation of energy-related legal instruments
Cycling without age presentation
1. Passengers enjoying “the right to wind in their
hair” along the Newcastle Quayside
This is Annie, our very own triobike!
2. What is Cycling Without Age?
Aims to combat loneliness & social isolation amongst the elderly
and less mobile
Volunteers (AKA ‘pilots’) provide free cycle rides to passengers who
sit at the front two-seater cab & experience the thrill of being back
on a bike
Passengers can feel like an active part of their local community
Completely autonomous & voluntary ran
Groups (AKA ‘chapters’) organise their own financial &
organisational structure
All independent groups are affiliated to the global initiative
Established in 2012 & now present in 1,500 + locations worldwide
The UK presence is growing and we are the first ‘chapter’ in the
North east of England
3. The 5 Guiding Principles of Cycling Without Age:
‘Generosity’: Taking one or two elderly or less-abled people out on a bike ride is a simple kind act that
everyone can do.
‘Slowness’: Slow riding enables you to fully sense the environment and allows time to stop and talk to
people along the way.
‘Storytelling’: Older generations have so many stories that will be forgotten if we don’t reach out and
listen to them. During the rides, conversations flow between pilots and passengers and stories unfold.
‘Relationships’: CWA is about creating a multitude of new relationships: between generations, among
the elderly, between pilots and passengers, nursing homes employees and family members.
Relationships build trust, happiness and quality of life
‘Without Age’: Life doesn’t end at 75, but unfolds at all ages. CWA is about allowing people to age in
a positive context where they become more aware of the opportunities that exist to interact and still
be a part of their local community. ‘Without Age’ is also about giving this opportunity to anyone who
has reduced mobility no matter what their age.
4. What are the benefits of Cycling
Without Age?
Physical and emotional well-being benefits
Immediate signs of enjoyment from passengers
Moments of reminiscing & storytelling
Unique & unusual mode of transport
Passengers experience the feeling of “wind in their hair”
Promotes a healthier social life & builds new friendships
All independent groups are affiliated to the global initiative
In Denmark formal research has began to assess to long term
health benefits. Pilots get fit too!
5. How do we continue and expand
Completing the repayments for our part-
purchase of Annie – we still have £750 to
pay
Contribute towards the running costs of the
project (insurance & maintenance of the
triobike)
Purchase more triobikes so we can operate
in other locations in the region & allow
others to enjoy this wonderful project!
Train more people to be pilots to ride the
Trishaw(s).
Organise more rides through awareness
and partnerships with other organisations.