On your trike idea to tackle isolation
Maidenhead: Hope to buy trishaw for Cycling Without Age scheme
Volunteers are fundraising to launch a Maidenhead ‘chapter’ for the Cycling Without Age initiative.
The volunteer-led service will offer free rides on ‘trishaws’ to older people and those with mobility issues.
The trishaw is a three-wheel motor-assisted cycle with a passenger cab at the front.
Founded by Ole Kassow in Denmark in 2012, the non-profit movement currently operates in 39 countries.
Diya Singh, who is spearheading the initiative in Maidenhead, said: “There’s a lot of elderly people in this town who may be dependent on someone and unable to go out as much as they would like to.
“My idea is to just take them around town… for them to feel that they’re still a part of this town that’s now changed, but where they have history.
“They’ll be safely out of the house, in fresh air and most importantly, able to share their stories.”
Diya, who has been a resident in Maidenhead for five years, said this was crucial because ‘no one has time to listen to stories’.
“From personal experience, I can say it’s very rewarding. They’re so grateful for any time that you can give,” she added.
Diya was introduced to Cycling Without Age by a friend in Scotland, when she wanted to help
another friend who was suffering from depression and isolation.
She said the concept was ‘sweet and joyful’ and ‘she couldn’t let the idea go’.
After being approved as a Cycling Without Age affiliate for Maidenhead in December 2022, she launched a GoFundMe page to fund a trishaw, which is imported from Denmark, and other necessities such as safety blankets, hoods and insurance.
Charitable sums from various organisations and donations from friends and family have contributed to the overall fund, but the target has not yet been reached.
In an appeal, Diya said: “Do it for your grandparents, do it for your elderly neighbour. Do it for someone close in your life. Even a small donation could make an older person really happy.”
Diya has volunteered with Good Gym Windsor & Maidenhead for four years, and plans to recruit her fellow volunteers for Cycling Without Age.
She eventually hopes to extend the service to care homes and older birthday parties.
The Cycling Without Age initiative aims to bring generations closer together, and regain social connections while experiencing nature and storytelling ‘without age’.
For more information, visit: gofund.me/e54c3476