Women on Wheels (WOW), a women’s cycling club, has recently been awarded a Public Health Community Grant to help expand its reach and impact.
With around 100 members, from 20 years old to 73, WOW is dedicated to encouraging even more women to enjoy cycling in a safe, supportive, and social environment.
The grant has enabled WOW to train additional volunteer ride leaders, ensuring safe and enjoyable rides across the county.
It will also support the expansion of the club’s off-road cycling programme, offering 96 additional places for women of all abilities to build confidence, improve fitness, and enjoy the mental health benefits of cycling.
WOW Group leader Sally Ellis said: “Cycling is one of the most effective ways to improve physical health, boost mental wellbeing, and reduce social isolation. WOW’s ethos is to remove barriers to participation. Members frequently loan their own bikes, provide donated bicycles, or arrange hire options so that cost never prevents women from joining us. Free rides are offered throughout the week and weekends, catering to both working and non-working women, with groups kept small to ensure safety and inclusivity. We have such fun on these rides and want to ensure more women can join in and feel the benefits!”
One WOW member said: “Joining Women on Wheels has changed my life. I’ve met wonderful people, built my confidence, and discovered a love of cycling I never thought possible. It’s not just about fitness, although that is a major benefit, it’s about friendship, connection, and feeling safe and supported every time I ride. We always find time for tea and cake afterwards and I know I can talk with them about anything.”
Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, Councillor Satinder Bell, recently met up with WOW before a ride in Snowshill, near Broadway.
Councillor Satinder Bell said: “We are delighted to support Women on Wheels through our Public Health Community Grant programme. Cycling is a fantastic way to improve both physical and mental wellbeing, and WOW’s commitment to welcoming all types of riders and ensuring their safety means that no woman is excluded because of cost or confidence. Their work is helping women across Worcestershire feel healthier, happier, and more connected.”
To find out more about Women on Wheels please visit: https://women-on-wheels.co.uk/
To apply for a Public Health Community Grant to boost health and wellbeing in your neighbourhood, please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants
