FCC Environment and Cynthia Spencer Hospice charity have teamed up with HMP Five Wells to launch a new bicycle repair and refurbishment project aimed at supporting rehabilitation, sustainability and community benefit.
The project provides men at HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough with the opportunity to learn hands-on bicycle maintenance and repair skills, helping to develop practical skills, build confidence, improve employability and contribute positively to the local community.
The refurbished bicycles are available to buy at the Cynthia Spencer Reuse Charity Shop located at Sixfields Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC) in Northampton.
No booking is required to visit the shop.
The initiative has been made possible through the combined efforts of all three partners.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to social value, rehabilitation and sustainability bringing together industry, charity and the prison service to deliver meaningful outcomes for individuals and the wider community.
As part of its wider community support, FCC Environment has also donated a collection of books to the HMP Five Wells library.
The donation will help expand learning and recreational resources available to residents, supporting literacy, education and personal development.
A representative from HMP Five Wells said: “This project gives men the chance to learn valuable, practical skills while making a positive contribution beyond the prison walls.
“We are grateful to FCC Environment and Cynthia Spencer Hospice for their continued support and commitment to rehabilitation.”
Sarah Markham, assistant reuse development manager at FCC Environment, said: “We are proud to support this bicycle repair project and the donation of books to the prison library.
“Supporting initiatives like this aligns strongly with our values around sustainability, education and community engagement.
“We’re pleased to play a part in a project that delivers long-term benefits.”
Ruth Bain, head of commercial from Cynthia Spencer Hospice, said: “We are extremely delighted to support this partnership.
“It’s encouraging to see organisations working together to create positive change and raise vital funds to support hospice care across Northamptonshire.”
The bicycle repair project is expected to grow over time, offering further training opportunities and strengthening links between HMP Five Wells and local community partners.
