Support Eastbourne Wheels4All – Helping Disabled Riders Experience Freedom Through Cycling
Eastbourne Wheels4All is appealing for support from the local community to help raise funds for its much-loved inclusive cycling centre, which has been changing lives across East Sussex for more than 11 years.
Established with the support of the national Wheels for All charity, formerly Cycling Projects, and East Sussex County Council, Eastbourne Wheels4All has grown from just 9 adapted cycles to an impressive fleet of over 100 specialist bikes. The centre now operates from Eastbourne Sports Park athletics track, with dedicated storage facilities, workshops and a marquee where riders can rest and enjoy refreshments.
The centre provides cycling opportunities for people of all ages with disabilities, additional needs, learning difficulties and those undergoing rehabilitation following hospital or clinical referrals. Riders travel from across East Sussex, as well as neighbouring areas including West Sussex and Surrey, to enjoy the unique experience and sense of freedom that adapted cycling offers.
Supported by a small team of staff and a dedicated group of volunteers, Eastbourne Wheels4All works hard to keep sessions affordable and accessible to as many people as possible. However, maintaining a fleet of specialist adapted cycles is expensive, and ongoing fundraising is essential to cover maintenance costs and purchase new equipment.
Karla Finch, whose son has been attending the centre for many years, is helping to raise awareness and support for this incredible local organisation.
She said:
“My son has been part of the Wheels4All scheme for years. It enables adults with disabilities and learning difficulties to ride a variety of customised bikes in a safe, non-judgemental environment while giving them a real sense of achievement. I am asking for your help and support to ensure everyone has the same opportunities within our community.”
The impact of the centre can be seen through the experiences of its riders and families.
GB Para Sailor Jaz Turner, who recently became the first disabled female sailor to circumnavigate the British Isles solo, described the centre as:
“Eastbourne Wheels4All is a piece of Inclusive Heaven.”
One local supported living provider commented:
“Our clients love it and so do the staff. It is a low-cost activity that is not only physically stimulating but mentally stimulating too.”
Another parent said:
“The opportunity Wheels4All offers our severely learning-disabled son cannot be underestimated. It gives him exercise, independence and something he eagerly looks forward to every week.”
How You Can Help
Eastbourne Wheels4All is seeking support from local residents, businesses, community groups, schools and organisations.
You can help by:
- Organising a coffee morning
- Taking part in a sponsored event
- Making a donation
- Supporting fundraising activities and raffles
- Helping raise awareness of the charity’s work
Every contribution helps maintain the adapted cycles and allows the centre to continue providing life-changing opportunities for people with disabilities throughout the region.
Together, we can help ensure Eastbourne Wheels4All continues to provide freedom, independence and inclusive cycling opportunities for many years to come.