News: Cycling for Carers

Throughout June, cyclists are being challenged to ride 100 miles to raise awareness of the huge contribution carers make in our families and communities.

News: Cycling for Carers

Trafford Carers Centre encourages riders to Cycle For Carers

Throughout June, cyclists are being challenged to ride 100 miles to raise awareness of the huge contribution carers make in our families and communities.

‘Cycle For Carers’ is a cycling initiative hosted by Trafford Carers Centre, which provides practical and emotional support for unpaid carers in the Trafford area.

In accordance with social distancing guidelines, cyclists can take on the goal distance challenge in any way they wish; keen cyclists may want to ride the 100 miles all in one go, whilst others may prefer to spread out the challenge over the month, or share the distance with family or friends.

In return for taking part in Cycle For Carers, participants can ask for sponsorship from colleagues, family and friends to help support carers during the coronavirus outbreak.

During the pandemic, cycling has been recognised as an accessible cardiovascular exercise with many health and well-being benefits, leading to recent investment being made in new cycling infrastructure. With Bike Week and National Carers Week coinciding this year, taking on a 100-mile challenge could be of particular interest to cyclists and carers alike.

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Sian Day, Fundraising Manager at Trafford Carers Centre, said: “Coronavirus has meant lots of us are experiencing challenges unpaid carers face daily: feelings of isolation and fear; worries about financial struggles; trying to juggle work alongside family life and caring responsibilities.

For us, things will soon go back to a ‘new normal’. But for unpaid carers, these experiences are not temporary. Carers will continue to struggle unless they get the help they need. Funds raised from Cycle For Carers will enable Trafford Carers Centre to continue giving frontline support, providing a lifeline for vulnerable carers”.

70% of unpaid carers are providing more care because of the coronavirus outbreak, whilst over a third of unpaid carers are providing more care as a result of local services reducing or closing* (*“Caring behind closed doors”, Carers UK, April 2020).

All those who register for Cycle For Carers will receive a fundraising pack, graphics to share on social and fundraising support throughout.

– For more information on how to take part in Cycle For Carers, please click here.

– If you would like to learn more about the support given by Trafford Carers Centre, please click here.