Calico staff on their bikes to help domestic violence victims

The Charted Institute of Housing’s Presidential Cycling Challenge involved staff from housing associations across the North of England, including North Wood Housing, Procure Plus and the Calico Group, cycling an astonishing distance of 28 miles in one day.

Starting from The Calico Group’s head office in Burnley, the team cycled all the way to Manchester Central train station.

All money raised through the challenge, which was set by Robin Lawler, chief executive of Northwards Housing, will go to CIH’s president Alison Inman’s chosen charity Women’s Aid, which supports women and children affected by domestic violence through a range of services across England.

Calico’s Bean Good Coffee Shop provided food and refreshments for the cyclists, and Calico Homes also provided a van as a support vehicle and staff to provide support throughout the journey.

Alison Inman, CIH president, said: “Calico are leading the way in supporting victims with complex needs and, when Robin offered to organise this charity bike ride, I was blown away.

“It’s been so hot today but they absolutely nailed it. Everyone deserves a drink.”

Staff from The Calico Group who took part in the challenge included Steve Aggett, group director of finance, Rachel Donovan, business development officer, and Phil Jones, group head of skills, employability and enterprise.

Steve Aggett said: “Women’s Aid is a great cause. We wanted to highlight the need for more funding for victims of domestic abuse.

“At the moment there is no government or agency fund to help tackle the problem. Here at Calico we have six refuges across the North West, all funded through grants and charity donations.

“We hope today we’ve shone a light on the issue.”

For more information about the Cycling Challenge, or to donate, visit www.charteredinstituteofhousing.everydayhero.com/uk/cih-presidential-bike-ride