Our recent Dr Bike event in Mile End showed what happens when community organisations come together with a shared purpose. Across the day, 90–100 people dropped in to get their bikes checked, repaired, and back on the road. Brake pads, cables, and other essential fixes were made — saving people hundreds of pounds they may not have been able to spend otherwise. For many, it was the difference between leaving their bike at home or keeping cycling.

This event was made possible through support from Tower Hamlets Council.

The day was led by Mile End Community Project (MCP), whose deep roots and trusted relationships in the neighbourhood brought residents along in large numbers. As Nurull from MCP described, Dr Bike is a “lifeline” — and that’s exactly what it felt like on the day.

 

 

Zoe Portlock, Co-CEO of Bikeworks, said:

“When people share the same purpose, great things happen. Working with MCP is great proof of that — their strong community ties and our mechanics’ know-how came together to support people who needed it most. That’s what partnership is all about: side by side, making cycling something everyone can enjoy.”

Nurull Islam added:

“Events like Dr Bike Fest show how collaboration between community groups, local organisations, and partners can make a real difference. By breaking down barriers such as costly repairs, we’re encouraging more people to embrace cycling as a healthy, sustainable way to travel.”

What stood out was how agile and innovative both organisations were in working together. From MCP’s on-the-ground organising and volunteer support, to Bikeworks’ mechanics and practical know-how, we showed how partnership can respond directly to community need while staying rooted in a shared purpose.

 

 

These partnerships don’t just fix bikes; they build confidence, reduce inequalities, and strengthen community ties.

A short survey MCP ran captured postcode data and rider feedback, giving us valuable insight into who attended and how the event is making a difference. And thanks to photographer Rehan Jamil and MCP’s film clips, we have powerful visuals to tell the story.

 

 

What’s next?

The demand and energy on the day were clear — people were already asking when the next Dr Bike will be. MCP is planning a follow-up session after the summer holidays, and we’ll be there again. Because this isn’t just about repairs; it’s about showing what communities can achieve when we come together with shared values and purpose.

 

 

Social prescribers connect people with the activities and support that make the biggest difference to their health and wellbeing. And what better tool than cycling — affordable, sustainable, confidence-building, and joyful. This summer, Bikeworks joined forces with the GLA, TfL, and the Tower Hamlets GP Care Group to launch a new Santander Cycle Hire offer, designed to put cycling firmly into the hands of social prescribers across the borough.

A true partnership in action

Behind the scenes, partners from GLA, TfL, and the GP Care Group worked closely with Bikeworks to shape an experience that would let social prescribers feel the benefits of cycling first-hand, before offering it on to their patients and communities.

On 30th July, more than 20 social prescribing link workers gathered in Victoria Park for a cycle skills session using Santander bikes. Led by Bikeworks’ qualified instructors — including Co-CEO Jim Blakemore — the group explored off-road routes, rebuilt cycling confidence, and rediscovered the simple joy of riding together.

As Zoe Portlock, Co-CEO of Bikeworks, reflected:

“At Bikeworks we’ve seen time and again how cycling can transform people’s confidence, wellbeing, and connection to others. As an inclusive cycling social enterprise, we’re proud to bring our expertise into partnerships with health professionals like the GP Care Group — making cycling part of everyday care and support, and ensuring the people who will benefit most have the chance to rediscover it in a safe and welcoming way.”

Positive first rides

The energy on the day spoke for itself. Many participants hadn’t cycled in years, while others were trying Santander bikes for the very first time — and the feedback was immediate.

Elsa Robinson (GLA) reflected on the impact: “There was some really nice feedback from people who hadn’t cycled in a long time and loved it.”

For Preet Johal (Tower Hamlets GP Care Group), the session went beyond enjoyment, sparking inspiration among the team: “The social prescribers said they had a lovely time. I think you may have inspired some of us to get back into cycling!”

And as Sahdia Warraich (Social Prescribing Manager) shared the following morning, the experience was still resonating: “Everyone had a great time. They were all talking about it at this morning’s Social Prescribing team meeting!”

Cycling as “More Than Medicine”

This pilot shows the potential of integrating cycling into the “More Than Medicine” approach that social prescribing is built on. By working together — the city-wide reach of GLA and TfL, Bikeworks’ expertise in inclusive cycling, and the trusted role of GP Care Group link workers — we are opening up cycling to people who might otherwise be excluded.

The session gave social prescribers the chance to experience cycling first-hand. With this confidence, social prescribers can now champion cycling as part of their work, encouraging residents who are less likely to cycle — whether because of confidence, cost, or lack of opportunity — to give it a go.

This is just the start. By equipping social prescribers to lead the way, we can ensure more people across Tower Hamlets — and beyond — discover the freedom, confidence, and connection that riding a bike brings.