When Deidre got back on her bike it changed everything. Through our Leading the Way programme, she has found a new freedom she never thought possible. Today she shares her story with us.
Deidre, a participant of our Leading the Way programme rediscovered joy, freedom, and fun of cycling. Credit: Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (left) / Deidre O'Neill (right)
Deirdre’s cycling journey
Deirdre, a Medical Secretary at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, has transformed her lifestyle over the past few years, losing an incredible five stone through walking and healthy eating.
But her journey didn’t stop there.
During a chance encounter in the lobby of the Royal Victoria Hospital, Deirdre met Dianne, Project Officer with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (NI) in Belfast.
Dianne was promoting our Leading the Way programme to Belfast Trust staff.
Leading the Way is a free programme of practical support, training and advice to help employees consider sustainable modes such as walking, wheeling, cycling or using public transport for daily travel.
After a friendly and encouraging chat, Deirdre felt inspired to take the next step in her wellbeing journey.
With Dianne’s support, she borrowed a fantastic e-bike through work with their free Borrow a Bike scheme.
She hasn’t looked back since.
"I can’t believe it’s actually me!” Deirdre shares. "I loved cycling as a child but never carried it through into adulthood. Until now, at the grand young age of 49!"
After enjoying several rides on her borrowed e-bike, Deirdre applied for the Cycle to Work Scheme and is now the proud owner of a Carrera vengeance women’s e-bike.
Our free Leading the Way programme in Northern Ireland encourages small, sustainable changes to daily travel habits. Credit: Brian Morrison
Cycling has become a regular part of her life.
She now uses her bike for commuting to work.
She also uses it to spend quality time with her son at the weekends.
Together, they’re rediscovering the joy, freedom, and fun of cycling.
Deirdre’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to try something new — and that small steps can lead to life-changing results.
Deidre says: "At 49, I got back on a bike and it’s changed everything. From losing five stone to cycling to work and with my son. I’ve found a new freedom I never thought possible."
Leading the Way with Workplace Active Travel
Join our free award-winning programme, Leading the Way, funded by the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland.
We engage with workplace partners* in Belfast and the North West helping employees to make small, sustainable changes to daily travel habits.
*such as Belfast Trust, Department for Infrastructure, Public Health Agency and Belfast City Council.
