Daniel is a young man with a passion for fun rides and machines that make noises. He enjoys being active and engaging in activities that are inclusive to his needs. Daniel is autistic, has a learning disability, and is visually impaired, but these challenges do not deter him from pursuing his aspirations or broadening his experiences.
Waterside has had the opportunity to expand their activity timetable to include the Bike Buddy Scheme (Wheels for All). To support these sessions, two staff members have been identified to complete Ride Leader training, and another eight are undergoing Cycle Confidence training. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Wheels for All and Waterside, supported by our Volunteer and Activities Coordinator.
The Bike Buddy programme enables people with disabilities to access cycling and build confidence and skills using adapted cycles. Wheels for All has provided Waterside with two adapted cycles, one hand-propelled and one foot-propelled cycle.
Daniel was first introduced to the cycles on 21st 2024. Initially, he was assessed for the hand-pedalling trike. In the first week, Daniel was vocal and disliked his helmet. However, he sat on the trike and then put on the helmet. After his session, he requested his inhaler, something he rarely does, so staff monitored him closely after each session. During the second week, Daniel sat on the trike but showed little engagement, saying, “Oh God, oh God,” before getting off and disengaging from the activity.
Staff supporting Daniel looked at possible reasons for his disengagement, such as the time of day, his activities earlier in the day, or whether he just didn’t like the session. By the third week, Daniel changed to the foot-pedalling cycle and took to it straight away. He pedalled independently, only needing guidance for turning, and responded well to verbal instructions such as “reverse,” “forward,” and “stop.” He engaged in the session for 30 minutes. By the fifth week, Daniel was totally engaged and enjoying the trike sessions, showcasing his exceptional skills.
Currently, the sessions take place in the physiotherapy area within Waterside once a week.
Daniel’s goal is to take part in the Wheels for All programme at Cleveleys Racetrack.
Wheels for All gives Daniel the freedom on the adapted trike to enjoy his independent mobility. There is nothing about Wheels for All that is not beneficial for Daniel as it helps his cardiovascular fitness, his flexibility, and the strength in his legs. Most importantly, it enables him to participate, like anyone else, to ride a bike with a little adjustment.
Ang, Daniel’s support worker, shared: “I’m so proud of Daniel and what he has achieved in such a short time. He is really good at listening to instructions. This program has given him independence, and his confidence has grown continuously while using the trike.”
