Living Better is celebrating an exciting milestone as Programme Delivery Officers Kieran, Liam, and Adam officially become Level 1 Qualified Ride Leaders through British Cycling training course. This is a massive achievement for our team and aligns perfectly with our mission to improve the lives of people and communities through the power of movement. By successfully completing this course, we are able to develop our programmes and offer even more opportunities to our communities. Particularly programmes and activities that empower people of all ages and abilities to discover a love of movement through cycling while supporting journeys towards active, healthy lifestyles.
Building Skills to Lead Safe and Inclusive Rides
In July 2025, the team set off to York to complete a full day of learning and training with British Cycling. The course expertly blends theory with interactive hands‑on practice – this nationally recognised course is designed to build confident, capable Ride Leaders, equipping them with the skills to plan routes, manage groups, and deliver safe, inclusive, and enjoyable cycling experiences for all.
Kieran, Liam and Adam shared that they successfully learned how to plan suitable routes, assess risks, support riders of different abilities, and create a positive, welcoming environment for everyone taking part. At Living Better, we are rooted in community, so it was especially advantageous that the team explored the wider benefits of community cycling – from improving mental wellbeing, to encouraging sustainable travel, and helping people build social connections outdoors.
Putting New Skills Into Action
In the afternoon, the cycling group ventured out on a live practice ride, putting their learning into action in a real‑world setting. Each participant was given the opportunity to take the lead, experiencing first‑hand the responsibilities involved in guiding a group safely and confidently on the road.
This practical session allowed riders to build confidence in clear communication, adapt routes in response to changing conditions, and manage group dynamics — all essential skills for an effective Community Ride Leader. The supportive environment encouraged peer learning, reflection, and the sharing of experiences, helping participants to grow both individually and as a team.
Achieving this new qualification means Living Better can now offer a wider range of cycling opportunities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. With more trained Community Ride Leaders, we are better placed to support inclusive, welcoming rides that help people of all ages and abilities discover the joy of movement, build confidence, and enjoy being active outdoors, while strengthening connections within their local communities.
What the Team Had to Say
“Becoming a qualified ride leader is a milestone achievement in my delivery career. The Ride Leadership course delivered by British Cycling was a brilliant experience. It’s given me the tools and confidence to help others enjoy cycling safely and socially,” said Kieran, Programme Delivery Officer at Living Better.
“Cycling is such a powerful way to connect with people as it promotes wellbeing and sustainability. Plus, it’s such a fun, accessible way to get active and moving more.” added Liam.
Looking Ahead: More Cycling Opportunities for Local Communities with our new Qualified Ride Leaders
Living Better is celebrating a significant step forward as of our three members become Level 1 Qualified Ride Leaders with British Cycling. This achievement strengthens our ability to deliver safe, inclusive, and enjoyable cycling opportunities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, supporting people of all ages and abilities to discover the physical, social, and mental benefits of being active outdoors.
By investing in skills, leadership, and community‑led delivery, Living Better is continuing to champion cycling as a fun, accessible way to move more, connect with others, and build healthier, more active communities — one pedal at a time. We are immensely proud of our team of what they have achieved and how passionate they are about what they do, we have full confidence that they will continue to inspire others and contribute to meaningful change to the communities we work with.
