A new community initiative driven by Sodexo’s Aberdeen-based Energy & Resources team and HMP Addiewell in West Lothian has seen 26 refurbished bikes donated to pupils at Northfield Academy.
Working alongside its local charity partner, Abernecessities and HMP Addlewell in West Lothian, Aberdeen-based Sodexo Energy & Resources has gifted pupils the bikes that have been refurbished in the prison’s workshop.
Prisoners at HMP Addiewell are being given the opportunity to work on upgrading the bikes as part of a rehabilitation programme to equip prisoners with valuable skills for post-release employment and to help to try to reduce the risk of re-offending.
The academy has provided the team at HMP Addiewell with a further 13 bikes to be reconditioned. Sodexo Energy & Resources will continue to seek ways to further support Abernecessities and Northfield Academy.
Tony Brady, Business Development Director, Energy & Resources, Sodexo, said: “Every child should have access to the necessities required to live a happy and fulfilled life. This project has been a true team effort with our local partner Abernecessities, but also with the help of the employability team at HMP Addiewell who were able to drive this initiative at the prison.”
Craig McDermott, the Head Teacher of Northfield Academy, said “I am delighted young people in our school will have increased access to bikes, and the opportunity to use these as part of their learning, thanks to our partnership with Abernecessities, Sodexo and HMP Addiewell. It will provide learners with the opportunity to increase their understanding of road safety, sustainable methods of transport, and skills in bike repair/maintenance.”
Danielle Flecher-Horn, Founder of Abernecessities, which provides basic essentials to local children and families experiencing extreme financial hardship, added: “Gifting these bikes to the pupils of Northfield Academy will not only encourage them to ride to school, promoting a healthier lifestyle through increased physical activity, but also encourage a sense of independence. To be able to link Sodexo with the wonderful team at Northfield Academy is wonderful; we are delighted to be part of such a meaningful initiative.”