Bike Shed Operatives

Purpose

To assist with the smooth running of the bikeshed by making sure cycles are safe and ready for hire and helping cyclists to get on the cycles.

Main tasks

This is a varied role, but includes the following tasks:

Undertaking pre- and post-hire safety checks on all cycles
Adding any recommended attachments to adapted cycles
Sizing bikes and setting saddle height correctly
Helping cyclists with helmets and other clothing such as gloves
Taking out and returning cycles to bikeshed at the start and end of the day
Ensuring bikeshed and surrounds are tidy and safe, with cycles and tools safely stored
Cleaning cycles
Other tasks as required

Location

Most bikeshed volunteers will be based at Pedal Powers main building in Pontcanna Caravan Park, but some may also help out with cycle hire at our Cardiff Bay location.

Working with

Volunteers will work with bikeshed staff, principally Bikeshed Manager Chris Esprit and Mechanic Meirion Rhys, and other bikeshed volunteers.

Training and Support

All volunteers will be given a thorough induction into Pedal Power, to cover Pedal Power history, structure, orientation, health and safety, bike and tool storage, moving and handling, boundaries issues and dress code. Volunteers will also be trained as needed in how to lift and handle the cycles safely, undertake safety checks, fit accessories, clean cycles, sizing cycles and other tasks they are asked to do.

Further training in Child Protection, Protection of Vulnerable Adults, Disability Equality Awareness are provided in house and courses such as First Aid may be available.

Supervision will be given at the end of the first day, the first month and then at a time agreed with the volunteer at a minimum of 3 monthly. Chris Esprit has overall responsibility for volunteers in the bikeshed, but where necessary due to timing Meirion will undertake supervision.

Time commitment

Pedal Power is open 9am-4pm October to March and 9am-6pm April to September 7 days a week in Pontcanna and weekends only in the Bay during the winter. Volunteers are asked to commit to 3 hours per week or more.

Expenses

Out of pocket travel expenses of train or bus fare from the Cardiff and Vale area to Pedal Power will be given to you if you show us your tickets. If you volunteer for 6 hours or more in a day, we will give you a free lunch.

Personal requirements

A basic level of physical fitness is required as the role involves a good deal of manual handling, as well as good communication skills for dealing with members of the public. Any prior knowledge of cycle maintenance is an advantage, although due to the need to ensure safety at all times volunteers only undertake maintenance once it is clearly established that they are competant. The bikeshed can become very busy at times so the ability to cope with this is necessary. You must be willing to get your hands dirty!

Benefits:

An opportunity to learn new skills and develop confidence
An opportunity to socialise while doing something worthwhile
Something positive to put on your CV
We will be able to provide references for successful volunteers
1 hours free cycle hire for every hours volunteering
Pedal Power T-shirt
Contribute to Pedal Power's aim of making cycling accessible to all