A Clitheroe based company which helps people combat social isolation has received a Customer Donation Fund from the Co-operative Bank.

Breaking Cycles a community interest company (CIC) working across East Lancashire to make cycling accessible for all. 

The CIC aims to help people to connect with others, as well as boost their mental wellbeing and choose a more sustainable method of transport. 

Breaking Cycles provides a range of different services that include cycle training opportunities such as National Standard Cycle Training courses, learning to ride, adventure therapy sessions and confidence-building community projects. 

One of their projects ‘Riding Together’, equips participants with everything they need to start their cycling journey, or to return to it, after periods of physical or mental ill health. 

Director at Breaking Cycles, Karen Seed, said: “We are very grateful for the money we have received from The Co-operative Bank Customer Donation Fund.

"It has enabled us to continue our ‘Riding Together’ project and offer people who have never had the chance to ride a bike, the opportunity to start their cycling journey. 

“The project is really benefitting people in East Lancashire who may be socially isolated, from a low-income background, neurodivergent, living with disabilities or who are overcoming addictions.

"Our participants are enjoying improved mental and physical wellbeing, as a result of getting out on their bikes.”

The Co-operative Bank donated £4,000 to charities and community groups in Lancashire.

Funding was also awarded to Counselling in the Community.

Operating across two sites in Blackpool and Fleetwood, the charity provides support for local people who are struggling with their mental health or dealing with difficult life events, working with around 150 people per week.

Amelia Burnett, SME product manager at The Co-operative Bank, added: “Supporting our customers, particularly smaller charities and community projects, has never been more important. 

"We are proud to have been able to provide these grants to projects across the UK that are positively impacting communities, at a time when many people are facing cost of living challenges.”