The Kettering couple giving out bikes to those struggling with their mental health
Worries to Wheelies is a new scheme to support the mental health sector
Those struggling with their mental health will be able to loan a bicycle thanks to a non-profit scheme created a by a couple from Kettering.
'Worries to Wheelies' is the brainchild of Mandi Hales and her fiance Elliott Cole, both aged 32, who want to do their bit to help the mental health sector during the Covid crisis and beyond.
They say that by giving people a bike to go cycling it can help them recover physically and mentally, reduce stress levels, anxiety and depression and help those who have developed a fear of the outdoors to get back in the saddle.
They had always wanted to help tackle mental health but didn't have the time until events manager Mandi was furloughed and and professional car and stunt driver Elliott's work dried up because of the virus.
Mandi said: "There's a lot of people that could do with a bike that cannot afford it.
"We'll be working with local organisations like Mind and they will refer people who are in need of a bit of a lift because they are experiencing mental health issues.
"If we are approached by someone who would like a bike we would never turn anyone away."
The couple are Crowdfunding for cash to support the campaign and will also be servicing and repairing bikes to give to those who need them.
They will be picking up 40 from a police force in Crewe today (Thursday) and another 40 from officers in Luton on Friday.
The bikes will be provided on a long-term loan basis and the couple will also be working with youth agencies.
Mandi urged people to pledge support in up to four ways - to donate cash to the Crowdfunding page, to donate a second-hand bike, by sponsoring a bike or by sharing their pages.
She added: "It makes me feel very excited and the support from the community has been fantastic.
"We want to do all we can to relieve a future pandemic within the mental health sector with a rise in cases."
If you can help the scheme or would like to loan a bike to help improve your mental health, email [email protected].
To find out more about the scheme, which is backed by Lky7 Sports Nutrition & Cycling and Harborough Town Football Club's men's teams, visit the website here. You can find their Facebook page here and Instagram page at @worriestowheelies.