Ambulances, Bikes, Cars and Dennis
There are many rites of passage. Some are universal, others culture specific, or a facet of religious identity. Perhaps there are rites of passage that change over time, or are as yet unclear. When should a young person have their own mobile phone, especially when that phone is 'smart'? Perhaps that is a step too far, to see a phone as a rite of passage? Or, perhaps it signifies an erosion of tthe human experience of growing-up.
Mastering a bicycle is, if not a rite of passage, an experience I remember so well. An experience revisited and enjoyed even more as an adult with my own children. It really is something when the hand-lets-go, a signifier of more transitions to follow.
I learned to ride on two-wheels, in the cobbled backs that ran behind and between the rows of terraced houses. When I was aged 9-10, out on my bike I skidded and came off, trying to stop for a car. It was my fault, the driver was pretty upset too and carried me home. An X-Ray revealed I had hairline fractured of my tibia. I can remember being up so late 'The Untouchables' were on B&W TV. Back then a full-length 'pop' and crutches were required. After the pain subsided, a knitting needle was very useful. The plaster was well-scribed too. I had to attend the fracture clinic at Walton Hospital, Liverpool and still recall Dennis the ambulance gent. He was a great laugh.
Apparently, 97% of children from the richest backgrounds can ride a bike.
While only 86% of children from the poorest backgrounds are able.
This equates to 350,000 children, who would like to ride a bike but can not.
Experiences, skills MENTAL HEALTH Memory - of 'taking flight' Life skill: "It's like riding a bike!" Healthcare role model Ambulance staff 'Dennis' | Sustainability PHYSICAL HEALTH Accessibility 350,000 children would like to ride a bike. Fracture clinic Tibia |
Childhood - Friends Adult - Parenthood Cycling clubs Socialisation Social Justice Engagement - Play | Inequality 97% of children richest backgrounds can ride a bike. Only 86% of children from the poorest backgrounds |
There is an APPG for Cycling and Walking, which is also seeking to address accessibility:
British Cycling backs social justice inquiry to improve access and appeal of cycling to all
orcid.org/0000-0002-0192-8965
