Kierson Wise, our Paths for Everyone Manager, shares his lived experience of cycling with a disability, and how this has fuelled his passion for making cycling accessible for everyone. Kierson, who has recently published his research as part of his Churchill Fellowship, explains how we can help more people feel empowered to make cycling part of their lives.
"Over six weeks, I travelled across the USA and Canada, meeting trail designers, adaptive cycling organisations, equipment manufacturers, and community groups." Credit: Kierson Wise
Discovering the freedom of cycling
My life changed in a moment when, aged 23, I fell from a third-floor balcony.
The impact shattered my lumber vertebrae and, unfortunately, damaged my spinal cord.
The next few months were a whirlwind of ambulances, hospitals, tests, wheelchairs, physio and finally release home in a full body plaster cast.
I was walking again but it was uncertain, slow and difficult, such a contrast to my active, unconstrained pre-accident life.
About half a year later another remarkable incident occurred - I remember it so well – we were on Brighton seafront, when I decided to try my mum’s old low-step through shopper bike.
And just like that I was cycling; independent, mobile, moving fast, with the wind in my hair - freedom.
"My life changed in a moment when, aged 23, I fell from a third-floor balcony." Credit: Kierson Wise
Why making cycling more inclusive matters
Bicycles have been a real ‘lifeline' for me ever since, and there are many more people like me – who struggle to walk for many different reasons, but who can cycle and love it.
So, when I joined Walk Wheel Cycle Trust in 2017, I really wanted to work on improving the accessibility of our cycle infrastructure.
We all know how challenging it can be – restrictive barriers, poor surfaces, narrow pinch points and steep slopes – even steps in some places.
We are making progress on the physical infrastructure, but I quickly realised that there is much, much more needed to ensure genuine inclusivity.
Kierson's Churchill Fellowship has given him the opportunity to expand his knowledge around cycling and accessibility, and to make positive change through his findings.
The Churchill Fellowship, which was set up as the living legacy of Sir Winston Churchill, encourages people to follow their passion for change through learning from the world and then bring that knowledge back to the UK.
Inclusivity tips from across the globe
So, when I saw an opportunity offered by the fantastic Churchill Fellowship to visit the world’s leading experts in any chosen field, and bring that learning back to the UK, I made the application.
Over six weeks, I travelled across the USA and Canada, meeting trail designers, adaptive cycling organisations, equipment manufacturers, and community groups.
From accessible urban trail networks in San Francisco and Vancouver to adaptive sports communities in Whistler and Lake Tahoe, I saw how genuine inclusivity and a good old American ‘can-do attitude’ makes a real difference to people’s lives.
Kierson's Churchill Fellowship has given him the opportunity to expand his knowledge around cycling and accessibility, and to make positive change through his findings. Credit: Kierson Wise
Five pillars to follow to ensure accessibility for all
Through my research I identified five essential 'pillars' that must be in place for people to not only access cycling, but to feel empowered and supported to make it part of their lives.
I found that this framework applies not only to leisure activities, but also to everyday journeys and not only cycling, but also to other activities such as skiing, kayaking, surfing and more.
The five pillars:
Infrastructure - accessible, safe, barrier-free, well-connected infrastructure that supports use by all.
Facilities - supporting amenities such as accessible toilets, parking, and rest areas.
Information - accurate, consistent information (online and on-trail) to help users plan trips and feel confident.
Equipment - access to a diverse range of equipment that is comfortable, affordable, and available to try.
Community - supportive networks that offer training, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Together, these provide a framework for creating environments where people are not only able to take part but are supported to enjoy and sustain participation over time.
I have created an interactive StoryMap that delves into these five pillars, shares my experiences and findings, and presents detailed cases studies that highlight some fantastic organisations that are already putting these principles into action.
Stepping out of comfort zones with confidence
The Fellowship also challenged and changed me personally.
Being overseas for a long period, travelling with a disability and trying new adaptive activities, including sit-skiing in Whistler and surfing in Santa Cruz, showed me how important the right kind of equipment, encouragement and support can be when stepping outside your comfort zone, leaning new skills and finding new freedoms.
"Being overseas for a long period, travelling with a disability and trying new adaptive activities, including sit-skiing in Whistler." Credit: Kierson Wise
