Archway Bicycle Project for Young People diagnosed with ADHD & other related disorders

It was a joint project between MERCYHumanitarian UK and THE ARCHWAY.  Locally sourced statistics illustrate that there are currently in excess of 15,000 young people (aged between 11 and 25) in Greenwich who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Many of the young people who attend the project are victims of the ‘cycle of deprivation’ i.e. poor parenting, poor housing, drugs and alcohol, lack of education and a lack to emotional support within a stable environment. 

Diet of frequently poor with on over-reliance on takeaway food rich in sugars, fats. Staff at the project seek to support young people at a critical stage in their lives by providing an experienced, non-judgemental environment in which personal development and a wider understanding of the issues facing young people today.

The study plan was to provide 10 cycles all fully maintained, and safety checked including helmets for a 45-minute ride on a Friday morning, guided by qualified coach from the British Cycling Association.

The chosen route was all off road for safety reasons and two or three members of Archway staff accompanied the group to ensure their safety, ensure that they stayed together and remained safe. Young people frequently undertake risky ‘adrenaline producing’ behaviour as a method of controlling their moods and having additional members of the team meant that it was possible to manage the risks of uncontrolled ‘wheelies’.

The outcome

The first day started with the usual desire to do ‘wheelies. As described the group did not use public roads for this exercise and varied the terrain from cycle paths to the Thames pathway. 

As these group sessions commenced in winter it did make for an exceptionally cold experience! By the time the group returned to the project they were calmer, more stable and riding in a safe configuration. Feedback forms were given to the participant which revealed that although they had not initially wanted to admit their enjoyment they would recommend their friends to take part in similar programs.

During the first four weeks, the team leaders who completed the more formal teaching work sessions for the rest of the morning noticed a far calmer group of young people.  Partly due to the fact that they were also tired, having had to focus on the ride and the terrain for 45 minutes.

There were further two rides and the groups behaviour was much easier to control from the beginning of the ride and the feedback was very positive; behaviour and concentration improved. Balancing commitments with formal courses we will complete the final ride before the end of this academic term and collate and analyse the feedback forms.