The bike project was established in 1999 as a non-profit making charity. Originally set up by Caroline Adamson, the project was for people with barriers to work. This covers lots of issues and problems people may have regarding returning to work or working for the first time. The project gives people purpose, responsibility, training and a wage. It can help people reach their full potential, not only working as part of a team at the project but offering advice and helping people get into other areas of employment or training.
Trainees are provided with a range of experiences including:
- Re-establishing a daily routine of attending work
- Reintegration into society
- Dealing with the public
- Support with job search skills
- Training to match skills required by local employers
Trainees at the project can gain practical work skills and experience in a supported workplace environment. The Bike Project is a practical workshop in which bikes are repaired and restored. Restored bikes are then sold on to the public at affordable prices.
I had never been into the shop before and I really thought all the bikes that were for sale were new, that is how much of a good job these people are doing.
ZetTrans also fund Bicycle Maintenance Classes that are held at the shop throughout the year. If you would like to find out any more information about the classes, then please contact Caroline.
You do not have to have barriers to employment to be involved in the project, you can volunteer too. What a great way to give something back to your community. Volunteering is a great way to be part of the community, learn new skills, make a difference and most of all, have fun.
So next time you find an old bike lurking in the back of your garage, don't take it to the dump. Take it down to Shetland Community Bike Project. They will give it a new life, sell it on and gain funds for the continuation of the project.
The project doesn’t just take old bikes and make them all shiny again, they also offer:
- Bike repairs
- Bike spares and accessories
- Bicycle hire
- Bike maintenance classes
Did you know they also have a range of E-Bikes for hire, if you haven’t tried an E-Bike you really should. They are so much fun and so much easier to get about that a standard bike, especially if you’re not a regular cyclist and don’t have a fitness level as great as Bradley Wiggins.
The Community Bike Project is also a dealer for Volt E-Bikes. So, if you want to buy and E-bike (Volt) then Caroline will get it ordered for you and delivered to Shetland.
Contact details:
Caroline Adamson-Manager
16-18 Commercial Rd
Lerwick
ZE1 0LX
Tel: 01595 690077
Email: mail@shetlandbike project.co.uk