Aid provided to Sefton Council for promoting cycling as a common mode of transportation to school.
In the vibrant coastal town of Southport and its surrounding borough of Sefton, a significant shift has taken place in the way children commute to school. The number of children cycling to school has seen a remarkable increase compared to 2007, with today, 17% of children saying they always cycle to school. This surge in active travel can be attributed to a combination of strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts.
One of the key factors behind this success is the improved accessibility and inclusion of the Bikeability program. Efforts were made to make the training available to a diverse range of children from different schools and backgrounds, with targeted outreach to communities helping raise awareness and encourage broader participation.
The collaboration between local councils, schools, and cycling organizations has been instrumental in embedding Bikeability into school activities and curriculums. Schools have been proactive in promoting the program to parents and students, facilitating easier sign-up and participation.
Comprehensive promotion campaigns, including the use of social media, newsletters, and community events, have been instrumental in informing families about the benefits and opportunities of Bikeability. Clear communication about the safety, skills development, and fun aspects of the program have attracted more interest.
The allocation of dedicated funding from local government or grants has enabled the provision of free or subsidized Bikeability sessions. This investment in equipment and training has allowed more children to be accommodated.
Employing well-trained, engaging instructors ensures a high-quality experience that encourages children to participate and complete the courses. Positive feedback from participants has helped spread the word and build demand.
Safety and confidence building have been a primary focus, making the program appealing to parents concerned about their children's safety. Real-world riding experience in a controlled environment has reassured families and schools.
Offering sessions at times and locations convenient for families, such as during school hours or local community centers, has made participation easier. Adaptations to different age groups and skill levels also help engage more children.
Special mention goes to the 'Ditch the Stabilisers' events, which have been particularly popular, allowing younger children to learn to ride a bike. These events, along with the inclusion of special needs bikes for people with disabilities, further promote inclusivity.
Grandparents are actively encouraged to join rides, fostering intergenerational bonding and support. All ages are welcome to join cycle rides organized by the schools, creating a sense of community and shared enthusiasm for active travel.
By implementing these combined strategies—focusing on inclusion, partnership, promotion, funding, quality instruction, safety, and convenience—Southport and Sefton have successfully increased the number of children participating in the Bikeability program. This initiative not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also contributes to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sense of community spirit.
- The Bikeability program, with its focus on science (skills development) and health-and-wellness (fitness-and-exercise), has seen expanded participation in Southport and Sefton, increasing not only the students' physical fitness but also their well-being and confidence.
- Encouraging sports (cycling) and education-and-self-development (Bikeability training), the collaborative efforts between local councils, schools, and cycling organizations have fostered a vibrant culture of fitness and learning in Southport and Sefton, contributing to the overall growth and development of the children.
