Empowering young New Scots through cycling 

In partnership with Fife Council, we worked with 13 unaccompanied refugee and asylum-seeking young people. This targeted programme fostered independence, confidence and community connection.

We arranged a series of cycling activities for the group. This included confidence-building rides around Kirkcaldy and practical workshops. For some participants, this was their first experience of learning to ride a bike.

Through patient instruction and peer support, several young people gained the skills and confidence to cycle independently. This was a milestone that brought visible joy and pride.

A key highlight was the “Build Your Own Bike” workshop. Participants learned basic bike maintenance and assembled their own bicycles. Each young person left the programme with a free, fully functional bike. This is a vital tool for active travel, saving money and reducing carbon emissions.

We also helped participants explore their new town, make friends, and feel more at home. Cycling became a gateway to local knowledge, personal empowerment, and environmental awareness.

The initiative demonstrated how inclusive cycling outreach can support integration, wellbeing, and sustainability. It also highlighted the importance of removing barriers to active travel for marginalised groups.

We’re proud of the young people’s achievements and grateful to the partners and funders who made this possible. We want to expand this model to reach more New Scots and other underserved communities.

What participants told us:   

“I was active, so I liked it. Now I cycle to the gym.” 

“It was fun, I got to know new places.” 

“I enjoyed it and I discovered new places I wouldn’t see from the bus.” 

The initiative demonstrated how inclusive cycling outreach can support integration, wellbeing, and sustainability. It also highlighted the importance of removing barriers to active travel for marginalised groups. 

We’re proud of the young people’s achievements and grateful to the partners and funders who made this possible. With continued support, we aim to expand this model to reach more New Scots and other underserved communities.