Since 2022, Sanctuary Wheels has provided over 600 free refurbished bicycles and tuition for refugees and asylum seekers across Oxfordshire. The bikes offer refugees the freedom to get to know their new homes, access vital services, medical appointments, and be active, engaged members of their communities.

From places as varied as Afghanistan, Ukraine and Morocco, to name just a few, the programme has had a transformative impact on the lives of refugees.

"You can't live without a bike in Oxford. It gives you... freedom."- Sanctuary Wheels client

The bicycles that we receive are kindly donated from across the community, and refurbished, giving them a second life. The bike offers refugees and asylum seekers a free, environmentally friendly mode of transport, and a wonderful way to stay active and healthy.

Bikes can help people to integrate and feeling part of their new neighbourhoods, and are a powerful tool in combatting the social isolation that newly arrived refugees are all too often faced with, promoting both physical and mental health. Everyday, we receive truly heartwarming feedback about the influence that the programme has made to recipients' lives:

"For me, having a bike is about freedom and independence. It means I can save money and enjoy exercise which is good for my health. It helps me get to know my new city and local area, to be ready for meetings or go to interesting events. All of this becomes much easier when you have a bike. Thank you.” – Sanctuary Wheels client

If you can support this work, here is how your contribution can make a difference to the programme:

£20 could provide a lock and lights for a refurbished bike

£60 could cover all costs toward refurbishing and providing a bike to a refugee

Please give what you can today to help this amazing project continue.

Thank you.