Funding for cycle training helps Chorlton women build confidence

Women from across Manchester gained new skills and confidence thanks to a donation from Anwyl Homes to a community cycling project in Chorlton.

Chit Chat Chai is a volunteer-led English learning group, supporting women who are unable to access formal classes.

The £300 donation – from the Love from Anwyl fund – contributed to Chit Chat Chai commissioning local cycle group Bee Pedal Ready to deliver seven one-hour cycle training sessions. Led by qualified instructors, the sessions were tailored for cycling beginners who had either never learned to ride a bike or hadn’t cycled for many years.

Ursula Harries, assistant secretary for Chit Chat Chai, said: “We’re grateful to Anwyl Homes for supporting our cycle training sessions and to Bee Pedal Ready for delivering them to such a high standard.

“Learning to ride as an adult takes a bit of a leap of faith and can be scary. However, Anik and Belinda are both experienced and skilled instructors and put everyone at ease.

“The sessions gave participants a real sense of achievement and independence, while also improving confidence and wellbeing. Learning to cycle is about much more than riding a bike – it opens up new possibilities for travel and participation in the local community.”

Chit Chat Chai meets weekly during term time and provides English language learning and social activities for women who often have significant caring and domestic responsibilities. For many learners, it’s the only regular learning and social space they can access, helping to reduce isolation and build friendships.

The cycling sessions provided a safe and supportive environment for participants to develop cycling skills and become more familiar with local facilities. They form part of Chit Chat Chai’s wider programme of activities, designed to help women improve their English skills and feel more at home in Manchester. Alongside weekly lessons, the project organises cultural trips, conversation cafés and practical learning opportunities.

The donation was awarded through Love From Anwyl, a voluntary community fund supporting local charities, community groups and organisations in areas around Anwyl’s Dalton Fields development.

Phoebe Davies, head of regional marketing at Anwyl Homes, said: “At Anwyl, we’re committed to supporting projects that make a difference to communities close to our developments. Chit Chat Chai provides an invaluable service for women who may otherwise face barriers to social interaction and personal development. It’s fantastic to see the positive impact the cycle training sessions have had, helping learners develop practical skills that can support greater independence.”

For more information about Dalton Fields, visit www.anwyl.co.uk/dalton.