Firstport helps Adaptive Riders Collective (ARC) to provide inclusive riding experiences
ARC is Scotland’s only social enterprise providing off-road adaptive cycling to the disability community. Firstport’s assistance has empowered them to build a sustainable business model.
Background
In Scotland, many individuals with disabilities encounter substantial challenges in accessing the physical and mental health benefits of off-road cycling. Recognising the limited opportunities and resources available to the disabled community, Neil Russell, a passionate advocate for adaptive cycling, took action. In late 2022, he established the Adaptive Riders Collective (ARC) to address this exclusion and create new pathways for inclusive off-road cycling experiences.
Founder and Team
Neil Russell holds a research degree in ‘Including physically disabled participants in outdoor activities’ and has ten years of experience as a disability coach. As a wheelchair user himself, Neil discovered the life-changing potential of adaptive cycling. ARC’s leadership team is diverse and experienced, including Rosie Baxendine, Mike Thomas, Kerry MacPhee, and Ani Barber. Each member brings unique skills and perspectives, reflecting ARC’s commitment to being a peer-led organisation that empowers disabled people through employment and training in cycling and outdoor activities.
Challenge
The cycling sector for people with disabilities was characterised by sporadic, short-lived, underfunded, and poorly maintained opportunities, as most initiatives depended solely on grant funding, making them unsustainable. It was often delivered by well-intentioned volunteers lacking comprehensive knowledge of the field.
Pic credits: Adaptive Riders Collective
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Accessibility
ARC’s innovative business model goes beyond offering cycling experiences.
- Income Generation: To ensure affordability, ARC has implemented a diverse income stream, including consultancy services, event organisation, and grant funding.
- Education and Awareness: ARC prioritises education through “come and try” sessions and organising guided rides, allowing individuals to experience adaptive cycling in a safe and supportive environment.
- Advocacy and Partnership: For inclusivity within the cycling industry, ARC creates a welcoming and supportive space for all.
Firstport: A Catalyst for Growth
Firstport’s support has been instrumental in ARC’s rapid development. In 2023, Firstport’s assistance came through two key programmes: Start It in February, followed by Build It in November. Start It funding kickstarted ARC’s journey by funding website development, branding, and advertising, significantly boosting its online visibility and reach. The subsequent Build It award was transformative, enabling Neil Russell to work full-time on the project in 2024. This financial stability allowed ARC to offer affordable activities and pursue more ambitious goals.
The Impact: A Year of Transformation
Within just one year, ARC served over 200 disabled individuals, a remarkable testament to their impact. With Firstport’s support, they built a sustainable business model and strong partnerships by being a critical player in disability consultancy services within the cycling industry.
Pic credit: Riders Resilience
The Road Ahead: A Future of Inclusion
With financial stability, ARC can now focus on developing even more effective programmes that enhance participants’ experiences. They are actively fundraising for a transportation van to eliminate accessibility challenges and reach individuals who might otherwise be unable to participate.
A Partnership for Change
Firstport’s impact on ARC exemplifies the power of well-directed support to nurture impactful social enterprises that make the outdoors more inclusive and accessible to everyone.
The Next step
Stay in touch with ARC and support their work by following them on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Visit our start-up page to learn more about how Firstport can support your social enterprise journey.