We are proud to have provided eight hybrid Specialized Sirrus bikes to the residents of the Social Bite village in Granton. The village, run in conjunction with Cyrenians, supports people who have experienced homelessness. Along with providing accommodation, residents receive extensive support to get their life back on track.
As well as providing bike servicing , we fitted them with mudguards and kickstands as well as providing locks and helmets. Some of the residents never learned or haven’t cycled in some time. Our staff will be teaching them how to use the bikes and how to stay safe when cycling around to appointments, job interviews, journeys to college and more.
Staff handing over bikes at the Social Bite Village
Alan Nestor, our Managing Director, summarised our feelings by saying: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Social Bite Village in providing bikes for residents. We know they will have a great time riding them. There’s no doubting the physical health benefits of cycling, but beyond that, it can help reduce stress, anxiety and combat depression. It’s also one of the most economical forms of transport, and you know exactly how long it’s going to take to get somewhere, which is an advantage in a busy city. As an employee-owned-and-run business we understand that the Village is a fantastic initiative, and we hope to be able to continue this partnership as the project grows and flourishes.”
As Alan explains, cycling is more than just getting from A-B in an eco-friendly manner, there are several mental health benefits from cycling.
Alan Nestor (our Managing Director) with Charlotte Turner (Head of Organisational Development at the Social Bite Village)
There are currently 12 residents in the Social Bite Village, which is run in partnership with Cyrenians . The number of residents is rising to 20 in the next few weeks. Social Bite were keen to work with a local business and we leapt at the chance; knowing what a good cause it was and how enabling the residents to have the ability to cycle around Edinburgh could really benefit them.