Can you join a team to support cycling in historic Hexham on 22nd September?
We need a good team of nearly 30 people to make the event happen. We have a lot of supporters already lined up to help, but we need a few more. We all need to be safe, comfortable, relaxed, accepted, respected and cared-for.
There are various roles you could do, and we are anticipating two-hour shifts for stewards and supporters. If you don't cycle, or can't walk far, that's fine, there are less physical roles. No formal qualifications are needed, although it's helpful if you have bicycle-mending or first aid or childcare skills, or are just good at being nice to folks.
We have a briefing and training session on Tuesday 17th September at the Torch centre, from 5.30pm to 8pm. You need to come to this to learn everything about being an effective team member for On Yer Bike Tynedale.
See the Torch centre here: it's very easy to get to by public transport, or by bike, or even by car. Unfortunately we cannot provide childcare, but we will provide light refreshments on that evening, or we're perfectly happy if you bring your own food. We're also happy if you bring your own smile.
Volunteer roles are as follows:
Cycle-route stewards: stand by the track and support cyclists and the public. Help anyone who falls off and encourage children and anyone struggling. If you can, sort out minor issues with bikes such as chains falling off. Allow pedestrians to 'cross the road' safely, possibly by blocking the flow of cyclists. Encourage cyclists to slow down or stop to avoid congestion. Smile broadly and help lost children. Use a Walkie-talkie to communicate.
Contributor support: most contributors are mechanics or bike trainers for adults or children. They may need food, water, or a break or help managing a queue of people, or help with managing tasks. As a support volunteer you'll get them what they need and signpost them towards help if they need it. One volunteer will probably support two or three contributors, depending on their need. Most are quite self-sufficient. Would suit a volunteer with some knowledge of bicycle maintenance.
Road closure, vehicle and blue-light monitor: you would ensure that staff at the road closure points are ok, offering food, water and cover for a break. If there happens to be an emergency, you would support them to clear th roads for emergency vehicles to access the area. If any vehicles need to enter or leave (for example, residents' vehicles) you would accompany them at walking pace through the public and ensure space is safely cleared for them. We cannot prohibit residents with legal parking rights in the closed zone from using their cars, but we can discourage them, and then support them to drive extra-safely during the event if strictly necessary (for example, for care needs). Would suit someone who has had experience with health and safety management.
Reception, lost children and info management for the PA broadcasting. The event itself will have a reception desk for coordinating the stewards, issuing wrist bands to children who want to cycle and compile information. Volunteers based there will signpost the public to different contributors, give them information and broadcast information about things going on, such as demonstrations. Would suit volunteers who have customer service-type experience.
Well-being and first aid liaison: ensure everyone has what they need, help coordinate food and water supplies to contributors (who may be working hard), carry paracetamol and plasters for minor scratches among volunteers, help with getting people first aid if they need it, liaise with first aid tent and support those volunteers. Be on hand to cover stewards who may need a break and bring them food and water if they need it. Would suit someone with first aid or health experience.