This year has been an exciting one for Walk Wheel Ride, as we’ve continued to grow our programme of inclusive activities designed to bring people together, boost confidence, and make the outdoors more accessible for everyone.
From wellness walks and accessible days out to bike try-outs, our events are giving people opportunities to get active, meet others, and explore local places in ways that work for them.
Big Impact in our Communities
This story all started earlier this year when WWR teamed up with Experience Community to run a four-week Wheelchair Skills Course in Holmfirth. The course gave participants the chance to develop practical mobility skills and try out new equipment in a fun and supportive setting.
The sessions proved to be a real confidence booster, and the impact didn’t stop there. Many of those who took part, including Nathan, have since gone on to join other Walk Wheel Ride activities and continue their journeys towards greater independence and connection.
Nathan’s Story
To understand what these opportunities can mean on a personal level, we spoke with Nathan, one of our regular attendees, about his experiences.
How did you first get involved with Walk Wheel Ride?
I was introduced to Walk Wheel Ride whilst attending a wheelchair skills course and I’ve since joined them on a number of different events.
What difference have these activities made for you personally?
Due to my disability, I do sometimes struggle with social connections and getting out and about. So, the days out with WWR have been invaluable to me and have been a lifeline, enabling me to be out in the community with others and increasing my independence.
What have been some of your favourite experiences so far?
I’ve enjoyed wellbeing walks, being out in nature, experienced adapted trikes and a day out on the train to Barnsley, amongst other things.
How has taking part impacted your confidence or outlook?
I’ve really enjoyed doing different things and it has at times helped to take me out of my comfort zone, when I might not ordinarily have had that opportunity. I hope to continue being a part of WWR as it gives me something to look forward to.
Creating More Accessible Opportunities
Nathan’s experience reflects what so many participants have told us, that having access to inclusive, supported opportunities makes a world of difference. Whether it’s learning new wheelchair skills, exploring the great outdoors, or enjoying time with others, these moments build confidence, independence, and friendships.
Gina, our HV Active Travel Engagement Coordinator, sums it up perfectly:
I am so lucky to be in a position where I can create these opportunities for people in our community to come along to. The events that I have run have been life-changing for some. I’ve met some amazing people and made friends along the way, we’ve discovered so much about ourselves as individuals but also come together as a team. I’ve never laughed so much, I’d do it all again in a heartbeat
Looking Ahead
We currently have three active travel hubs – Holme Valley, Huddersfield and Batley & Spen Valley. Each hub is helping local residents to discover new ways of getting active, explore their surroundings, and connect with others, proving that accessibility and inclusion can open doors to healthier, happier communities.
The hubs are made possible through funding and partnership support, and we’re now working hard to secure further funding to continue this vital work. With so many people benefiting, we’re eager to keep providing inclusive, welcoming spaces where everyone can move, explore, and connect, regardless of ability or background.
For Nathan and many others, it’s more than just getting out and about. It’s about belonging, discovery, and the freedom to live life to the fullest.
Find out how you could get involved via our events page and to discover accessible routes to explore head on over to our ‘Get Out and Wheel‘ page.