Did you know that by being active and getting moving you could improve your wellbeing, health, and meet new people along the way?
And in Waltham Forest there are a myriad of opportunities for you to get out, enjoy exercise and make connections through nine local projects offering everything from family-friendly walking to cycling for older residents.
These groups have all been announced as successful recipients of the council’s pioneering Community Walking and Cycling Fund, which provides up to £2,500 for local groups running activities to help residents of all backgrounds get active.
So far, the Fund has supported more than 60 community projects, helping over 4,000 residents to walk or cycle more in their local area.
Cycle Sisters is one such group benefitting from this year’s Fund. This award-winning charity is going from strength to strength as it works to help create accessible and empowering cycling spaces for Muslim and ethnically diverse women.
Sarah Javaid, Cycle Sisters founder explains more: “Our aim is to make cycling as inclusive as possible because we want everyone to feel that cycling is for them. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the life changing benefits of cycling."
“I came back to cycling after not riding a bike for around 20 years. I remember finding it difficult and overwhelming. My confidence was low, I was nervous about cycling on roads and there didn't seem to be many spaces that felt supportive for someone starting again. I remember thinking how amazing it would be if there was a group of people who could help.
“So, together with a couple of friends, I decided to set up Cycle Sisters – to create the kind of supportive community we wished we'd had, and to help Muslim women build confidence and get started on their cycling journeys.”
In fact, 94 per cent of the women involved say that Cycle Sisters has improved their health. What’s more, 85 per cent feel less lonely and isolated, and 61 per cent now cycle more with their family.
Asma, a Cycle Sisters volunteer adds: “I was originally not confident to cycle on my own and on the road. But I started to build that confidence! I bought a new bike and I did my ride leader training.
“I was helped by volunteers to progress from scratch to be a confident bike rider. I was inspired by everyone at Cycle Sisters and now I want to give back to the community as a ride leader!”
Najla, another volunteer ride leader says: “When I cycle, I feel liberated and free, like a bird flying around! There’s no barriers or boundaries, and no stress. I’m just looking forward and enjoying the moment.
“I now cycle with my husband and family – we are all a bunch of cyclists now, and I’m the ride leader!”
Nine projects have received funding from this year’s CWCF:
- Age UK Waltham Forest: Cycling sessions for over 60s
- Black Women on Wheels (BWOW): Beginner-friendly cycle rides and activities
- Cycle Sisters: Encouraging Muslim women to cycle
- Epping Forest Heritage Trust: Chingford lunchtime walks exploring Epping Forest
- Lbs 4 Peace: An evening walking group for BAME women
- St Andrews Church Nordic Walking Group: A walking group from Higham Hill
- Walk the Loop: Monthly walks for families in Chingford
- Wesleyan Day Care Centre: A walking group for older people
- WF Blind Association: A walking group for older visually impaired adults