A Practical Route from Custody to Community

A new partnership between Ebike Freedom CIC and HMP Greenock is launching a Cycling Leadership and Community Rehabilitation Programme, offering prisoners a practical pathway to build confidence, develop skills and prepare for life beyond custody.

The programme works with individuals who have community access approval, supporting them through a structured journey from learning to cycle to taking on leadership roles.

Participants will:

•       Build cycling confidence and road awareness

•       Learn basic bike maintenance skills

•       Develop teamwork, responsibility and communication

•       Support community cycling activities

•       Work towards recognised qualifications

The aim is simple: to help individuals leave custody with skills, confidence and a clear sense of direction.

Building Confidence, Responsibility and Opportunity

“This programme is about giving people something real to work towards. We see individuals grow in confidence, take responsibility, and begin to see a different future for themselves.” — Mavis Mak, Project Coordinator, Ebike Freedom CIC

Proven Approach, Now Extended

The programme builds on Ebike Freedom CIC’s work at the Lilias Centre in Glasgow, where a structured weekly cycling programme has already shown strong outcomes in confidence, wellbeing and progression into training and leadership roles.

“The cycle leadership programme gave me my confidence back and opened up new opportunities for me.” — Anonymous participant, Lilias Centre

Bringing this approach to HMP Greenock marks an important step in expanding access to meaningful rehabilitation opportunities.

Supporting Life After Release

A key feature of the programme is continued support beyond custody. Participants will have access to community cycling sessions and, through Ebike Freedom CIC's Freedom Bike Library and Sister Spokes Bike Library (dedicated for women), can loan a free bike, helping remove practical barriers to transport, employment and independence after release. Both bike libraries are dedicated to people with justice experience.

The project is funded by the SPT People and Place Programme Community Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund.