The Prince’s Trust Pedal to success
Fourteen young people from across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast have recently taken part in The Prince’s Trust Get Started with Bike UpCycle Programme in partnership with UR Potential.
The five day programme was funded by the Big Lottery and included a variety of opportunities. The Course was held at UR Potential in Blackpool who successfully obtained bikes from the police, general public and Fylde Council. They were instructed by Ian Brooks Fylde Council on how to repair and maintain a cycle. The group learnt how to recycle bike parts, change & repair tyres, fix brakes and keep the chains oiled and working. As well as practically working on their bikes, they worked together as a group to develop their individual confidence, team working skills and employability.
In addition to this they received support from Jobcentre Plus, looking at different employment and work experience options. The group explored volunteering & training opportunities with UR Potential team members as well as further sessions covering Drug and Alcohol Education from the HUB. Each young person kept their bike complete with lights and each received an AQA certificate in Bike maintenance.
The week ended with a bike ride along the promenade to meet the Mayor at the Town Hall. The Mayor spoke to the young people in the Council Chambers and presented them with certificates, congratulating them all on completing the week. The group presented the Mayor with a picture of a bike, hand drawn by an artistic member of the group and thanked her for her ongoing support for The Prince’s Trust and Young people involved on the courses.
