Lloyds Bank Tour Of Britain Men Changes Lives With Community Integrated Care
British Cycling teamed up with national social care charity, Community Integrated Care, to empower people who draw on social care through the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men.
The sporting organisation and charity came together to deliver a creative development programme inspired by the Tour and cycling, that is supporting the dreams of people who have learning disabilities or autism, and people in mental health recovery.
By thoughtfully weaving the talents of people who draw on social care into the event’s athlete and spectator experience, British Cycling and Community Integrated Care are ensuring that the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men is a true celebration of inclusion – inspiring communities across the nation.
Enhancing physical activity, tackling isolation and empowering people who have faced real barriers in life to discover their talents, this partnership achieves real social impact through sport.
It has seen the formation of a unique dance club for nine people supported by the charity, who through working with the charity’s specialists in inclusive dance development, they co-produced a performance celebrating the spirit of cycling.
After two months of tireless effort and practice, they performed to a packed crowd at finish line of Stage Three of the iconic tour, in Barnsley, on Thursday 5th September.
The impact has been furthered by an arts development masterclass for twelve other people supported by the charity across the Northeast. Giving participants the opportunity to work with specialist artists from Age Exchange, a leading charity for creative development in care, participants discovered new artistic talents.
Their artworks, which celebrate the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men and the sport, were presented to riders at the event.
Tracy Power, Director of Social Impact at British Cycling, said:
“We’re thrilled to be working with Community Integrated Care to provide opportunities for people they support to get involved with the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men.
This programme is the first of many as we begin working with partners to bring our social impact framework to life. Our ambition is to use major cycling events like this as a force for good, tackling inequalities to create greater social benefit.
It’s fantastic to see the joy that cycling has brought to those involved in the dance and artwork activities and we look forward to providing opportunities for more people in the future.”
Tauseef Iqbal, who is supported by Community Integrated Care and was part of the Dance troupe, said:
“This experience has been amazing. I never thought this would be possible, to dance at a big sporting event alongside my friends. My family are so proud of me. It was amazing!”
John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care said,
“This partnership has empowered people to live their dreams, develop new life skills and discover new talents.”
“Through British Cycling bringing this programme into the heart of the Tour, they are creating memories that will last for a lifetime and delivering a powerful celebration of inclusion across communities.”
We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this life-changing programme.”
