Meet Billie Read, a remarkable 45-year-old Essex Pedal Power volunteer. Billie has recently made history by becoming the first female with autism to earn a Level 1 City & Guilds certification in Bike Maintenance in Clacton and Jaywick Sands.
Billie’s journey with Essex Pedal Power began over a year ago, after she discovered the initiative through social media and connected with Kerry, the Administration Support Officer. Intrigued by the programme, Billie decided to apply for a bike. Once she received her bike and delved deeper into the project, she was so impressed that she knew she had to get involved as a volunteer.
Billie, who was diagnosed with autism in January 2023, has developed a hyperfocus on bikes and spends most of her time repairing and tinkering with them. She even bought a damaged bike recently to practice her skills at home. Her passion for volunteering isn’t new—she’s previously volunteered with the Air Cadets, SOS bus, and St John Ambulance. With this rich background, she decided to sign up as an Essex Pedal Power volunteer, helping behind the scenes rather than at the bike giveaways.
Billie said; “Volunteering to work on building and repairing bikes is great for neurodivergent people, as there is so much to hyperfocus on and it gives me a great sense of achievement every time I see someone on a bike I built. I hope more opportunities for neurodiverse folks in this industry become available and they get the chance to learn skills to help others like me.”
Billie now works closely with Essex Pedal Power’s mechanic, building bikes for other recipients and assisting with bike giveaways. Her dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed.
Rosie-Roella Kevlin, Essex Pedal Power Clacton and Jaywick Sands Coordinator, shared her thoughts on Billie’s journey; “Billie’s journey with the Essex Pedal Power community is a testament to the power of passion and community spirit. Since receiving her bike last summer, her enthusiasm for cycling and community engagement has blossomed. Not only has she become an integral part of the volunteer team, but she’s also achieved her Level 1 City & Guilds qualification in bike mechanics, funded by Tendring District Council’s Community Fund, as part of Essex Pedal Power Re: Cycles project. With plans to launch women-only ‘Learn to Fix’ events, Billie is set to empower more individuals in the community.”
Essex Pedal Power, launched in Clacton and Jaywick Sands in June 2021, and is a partnership between the Active Essex Local Delivery Pilot (LDP), Essex County Council, The Active Wellbeing Society (TAWS), Tendring District Council, Community Voluntary Services Tendring, Sport England, and Cycling UK, alongside local stakeholders and community groups.
The successful community cycling initiative has positively impacted many residents, helping people find employment, reconnect with family and friends, get active, and travel to school or work.
Billie’s story is a shining example of the incredible impact Essex Pedal Power has had on the local community. Congratulations, Billie! Your achievements inspire us all.
Find out more about Essex Pedal Power and how you can get involved here.
