Trust Links Cycling Course Hadleigh
Improving mental health, physical wellbeing, and confidence through cycling
Trust Links, a local independent charity in Essex, is dedicated to improving people’s mental health and physical wellbeing. With a wide array of activities including therapeutic gardening, social activities, workshops, and cycling opportunities, Trust Links has supported over 4,000 residents across mid and south Essex. One of their standout initiatives is the Trust Links Cycling Course, a six-week programme designed to help attendees develop cycling skills and confidence while improving their mental and physical health.
The course is held at Hadleigh Park in Benfleet and consists of six weekly sessions, each lasting two hours. The sessions are delivered by two qualified instructors from Hadleigh Park Cycles, tailored to individual needs of those that attend. Trust Links project workers are present to provide a familiar and reassuring face, ensuring a safe and friendly environment throughout. E-bikes were provided for participants with long term health conditions, enabling their continued participation and breaking down any barriers to those wanting to take part.
10 members signed up to the course initially, with seven successfully completing the course aged from 19 to 61. Eight males and two females took part in the full course length. Participants built trusting relationships with the cycle coaches, reported improvements to their mental health, physical wellness, and their confidence. Those that attended expressed how they felt that inclusion was a key focus to those that ran the sessions.
Trust Links liaised with Hadleigh Park Cycles to support a funding application to Cycling UK for follow-up rides and further bike maintenance workshops, which was approved.
The Trust Links Cycling Project has proven to be a valuable initiative for improving mental health and wellbeing through cycling across Mid and South Essex. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, the project has helped participants gain confidence, build new friendships, and explore their local areas. The success of the programme highlights the importance of continued support and funding to ensure that more individuals can benefit from such initiatives in the future.
