The Side-by-Side is a ‘cycle taxi with a difference’. Great for addressing isolation and loneliness, the free service increases feelings of wellbeing and is designed with a focus on people with health conditions, people with restricted mobility such as older people or those with visual/sensory impairments.
The Cycle Taxi enables up to three passengers to enjoy gentle exercise and fresh air in a social group while carrying out practical (and fun!) journeys in their neighbourhood – all factors proven to be beneficial for physical and mental health.
It can be used for leisure or utility trips (to the doctor or shops)- and can be booked for regular slots to attend other activities. Throw in a little boost from the electric battery and you have the perfect vehicle for tackling loneliness and isolation.
How does it work?
- The cycle taxi service is completely free to use.
- Book a 1.5hr slot on the cycle taxi in your area and be picked up from your location by one of our pilots.
- The pilot will adjust the seat so you can get on/off easily and pedal comfortably- pedalling is not compulsory (!) You can simply sit back, relax and let the pilot (and battery) do the work.
- Make any number of stops within the 1.5 hours time slot: pick-up or visit friends; go shopping or head to a medical appointment; visit a nearby park or explore your local area.
- For trips with more than 2 people it is possible to book 2 slots next to each other in order to make specific journeys possible.
- The pilot stays with you the whole way to welcome you on board navigate, help carrying shopping or just for chats!
- Pilots are trained in riding and cycle mechanics; managing risk, are friendly and helpful and have up to date DBS checks and first aid certificates.
- You are welcome to bring a companion with you on your trip to help you enjoy it more.
Work for Us – Bikeworks are recruiting Taxi ‘Pilots’ to deliver this project.
Where is it?
Ride-Side-By-Side Cycle Taxi journeys will shortly be available in neighbourhood across East and West London.
In East London Bikeworks will cover the boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest and Newham.
In West London they will cover Kensington & Chelsea and Hammersmith & Fulham.