The hands-on session took place at the Recycles bike workshop, part of Booth House Lifehouse on Spring Close, where around 20 young girls were taught by Specialist Support Worker Simon Styles and volunteer Shane.
The two-hour evening event, described by Simon as “a bit chaotic, to say the least,” gave the children a chance to carry out safety checks and simple repairs on bicycles. Despite the lively atmosphere, he said it was “very enjoyable” and “fantastic.”
Simon, who leads the Recycles project, said:
“They were very enthusiastic and willing to learn.
“It’s a great way of showcasing the work that The Salvation Army does and bringing the wider community into the shop.”
Recycles repairs and refurbishes bikes while providing training and support for people experiencing homelessness. Residents gain confidence, structure and practical experience by volunteering at the shop.
The Brownies’ visit is part of wider community outreach work. Recycles also delivers training courses for local groups, including the mental health charity MIND, and aims to reduce stigma around homelessness by opening its doors to the public.
Simon said:
“It opens doors.
“It’s a way of bringing the wider community in so we can showcase what we do and get the residents involved as well.”
At any time, up to six residents volunteer at Recycles, gaining vital work experience in a supportive setting.
As a light-hearted end to the evening, Simon and Shane were awarded Brownie mechanics badges of their own, a gesture recognising their efforts.
Booth House Lifehouse is a 50-bed hostel offering accommodation and resettlement support for adults facing homelessness. It provides round-the-clock care and helps residents build pathways to long-term housing.
Its social enterprises, including Recycles and The Sandwich People, offer structured opportunities for people to rebuild their lives through work experience and skills training.
For more about the Recycles project, visit: www.recycles.org.uk
