The Bristol Bike Project

Lesson objectives

1. To demonstrate that if we want to change something, we should first start with ourselves
2. To demonstrate that one small action can yield big results
3. To make students discover their own mindset towards migration

There are as many as 400 asylum seekers currently living in Bristol. They each get just 35 pounds a week from the government, which is only just enough for them to buy a cheap meal. They cannot use city transport, as it is too expensive for them, which means they generally get around on foot. But since 2008 this is no longer the case, thanks to the group of enthusiastic people that launched a unique project: They pick up old bikes and overhaul them with the help of local refugees. These refugees, who are not allowed to be officially employed due to their migration status, are then given something extra special as a reward for their time spent doing something useful: their very own bike to help them get around town. 

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