“We can make places where people can move around and interact without fear, communities where people look out for one another.”
“Healthy people, healthy places are achieved with simple technology (cycles, scooters) and by educating people, especially our leaders.”
“It takes time. Its politically difficult (especially in car-centric Britain).”
“Little grassroots projects showing alternatives to the status quo can lead to big changes.”
For two decades David worked collaboratively with others with a shared vision to help more people to cycle. He developed the syllabus for what is now Bikebility, he trained cycling instructors and then those instructors to train other cycling instructors. He developed training courses for lorry drivers, and influenced changes in the Highway code so drivers understand how to share roads with cyclists.
Moreover he believed there is a cycling experience for everyone.
His collaboration with Clare Morris saw the development of Positive Spin, enabling people with dementia to cycle, and Ride Side by Side, which offers less mobile people the opportunity for exercise, to socialise and therefore tackle loneliness and isolation, and support with the practical tasks of daily living, showcasing alternative, emission free ways to get around.
David and Clare founded For Brian CIC in 2018, to provide a way to raise funds for people with dementia and their families to coproduce their own support. David’s expertise in running a cooperative, in chairing diverse and inclusive meetings, and his bold, can-do approach to achieve his vision, has been key to the evolution of this small organisation with high impact for each and every member of its community.
“Since For Brian was set up it has managed to create a community which has engaged people with dementia in a variety of activities that suit individuals, including regular activities like the weekly walk and cycle, a regular yoga group in Wandsworth and north London, and Positive Spin cycle rides. Street parties, Christmas parties and summer events at Rosewood Square. Clare has ensured that For Brian is Hammersmith & Fulhams go-to dementia inclusive organisation and has contributed the voices of people with dementia and their families to the Borough’s Dementia Strategy.
The effect on the local community has been visible within the estate, through the Wormwood Scrubs poster and art space, and by people you might not expect to be cycling out and about on a four seater cycle. It has been great to see how things are growing and changing”.
David was a talented filmmaker, capturing the impact of all For Brian’s activities. Take a look at our YouTube channel.
Links to two of our favourites:
Positive Spin picnic
Positive Spin launch
