Introduction
The funding from 1910 has enabled us to purchase essential items that we can distribute to asylum
seekers and refugees to keep them safe on the roads when using their bike. Asylum seekers receive
less than £7 per day, which is not enough to cover food, essential toiletries, clothing and travel costs.
Therefore, distributing restored bikes is a popular service that Oasis provides as it gives people the
opportunity to travel around the city by bike and gain a sense of freedom and independence. Many
refugees and asylum seekers struggle to afford public transport, which is why having a bike is so
important for many of our clients.
Output
The aim of this project was to distribute items to asylum seekers and refugees that they could use to
keep them safe on the road, and to keep their bikes safe.
We have received support from Cycle Training Wales, who provide one of their professional bike
mechanics to work as part of this project. Some of our clients have an interest in bike maintenance
and through this project they learn essential maintenance skills. This project has helped to purchase a
number of tools that our volunteers can use to fix bikes that are donated from the community.
Thanks to this funding, we have distributed 140 bikes (including children’s bikes) between August
2022 – August 2023, which have helped asylum seekers and refugees travel more affordably around
the city.
The funding was spent on the following items:
● 6 bike chains
● 14 Locks
● 26 Bike lights
● Tools for fixing bikes (including nuts, bolts, inner tubes etc.)
Outcome
Funding from 1910 Trust has enabled Oasis to support our clients by providing them with a bike, and
supporting them with safety equipment and items. Our waiting list for bike provision is very long, but
the funding for tools has enabled us to fix the bikes within a shorter period of time.
The funding has ensured that we have the suitable tools and equipment to take on volunteers with
lived experience to learn how to fix bikes, providing them with new skills and opportunities.
‘The lock you gave me was a lifesaver for my bike! The lights also kept me safe at night. Thanks a lot!’
– Anonymous client
‘The bikes are so helpful – my children use the bicycle to go to school. I don’t need to pay for them to
get the bus.Thank you so much, Oasis!’
– Anonymous client