The Housing Operations Co-ordinator, who volunteers for Belles on Bikes Falkirk, an inclusive cycling club for women, wanted to take part in a daytime event organised as part of Scottish Woman and Girls in Sport Week.

She was just about to book time off when an HR colleague, who also rides with Belles, told her about the policy which provides every employee with an extra day’s paid leave to support a cause close to their heart.

So, instead of Claire’s holiday entitlement taking a hit, she spoke to her line manager and applied to take up the hours available to her through the policy to ride in a special event that celebrated women in sport and partnership working.

Claire said: "Cycling in general benefits my physical health and my mental wellbeing, so being able to take part during the day meant a lot to me. I work in a very busy frontline service and it’s important to have a good work/life balance. Management understands this and I was actively encouraged to use the policy and submitted my request via My View.

“In general, female participation in sport is low, so the more we can do to support and promote female participation the better. That’s why it was great to be part of an event that showcased a wide range of sports that women are involved in.

“I would encourage others to use the policy. It gives you time away from the day job to support the work of charities and community groups that are close to your hearts. It’s a win-win for everyone."

Belles on Bikes

Pictured: Claire (far left) receiving her volunteer's certificate with other members of Belles on Bikes Falkirk.

Claire started to ride with Belles on Bikes as a member 5 years ago and quickly started to reap the physical and mental benefits gained from regular exercise and fresh air. So, when she was asked to become a volunteer in 2022, she jumped at the chance to share her enthusiasm and enjoyment of cycling with others.

Claire said: “Volunteering means Belles can continue to provide a safe and friendly environment for woman to come along and cycle. It’s an inclusive group and it doesn’t matter your ability, if you can cycle, you can come along. It’s 100% run by volunteers, and we give everyone a warm welcome.”

Need inspiration?

If you’re looking to find out more about cycling, come along to the 'Women in Cycling’ evening at the Helix and be inspired to get fit and healthy on two wheels. Taking place on Thursday, 8 June at 6pm, you’ll learn about the sport and hear from cyclist and Guinness World Record holder Christina MacKenzie, who started pedalling in her 30s and has never looked back.

Katie Galloway, from Falkirk Junior Bike Club, voted Cycling Weekly’s UK’s Cycling Club of the Year 2021, will also be talking about the work the club does to encourage the next generation of female cyclists.