15/06/2026
Back in March, we had a fantastic comment come in from a service user about two members of staff at Spring Hall Athletics Track who went above and beyond to support children with additional needs as part of our Adapted Cycling Sessions.
Well done James and Ethan! 👏
"I attended with my daughter and two grandchildren who both have autism, with my grandson having dyspraxia and mobility issues, pain from joints and asthma. He also struggles with his weight and does not like exercise. Both children have been last year with their parents, and my grandson did try a 4-wheel bike and was able to ride for no more than half an hour in total off and on with lots of breaks.
We attended Saturday morning hoping my grandson would try for a while on the 4-wheel, I have bought him a bike at home and he couldn’t ride it. He did one lap and then asked for a break. After that, he and I walked round twice and then the two lovely young men facilitating the session encouraged him to try a 3-wheel bike with support from his mum. Both staff were amazing and positive with him, and he tried the bike. He really enjoyed it and the two staff went round with him chatting and encouraging him. His mum and I looked in surprise as he did several laps of the track.
My grandson has suffered recently with some social anxiety and only attends school for half days for the last 3 months as that's all he could manage. Your two staff were the best thing for him yesterday: polite, professional, friendly and positive role models, with their support he cycled 3 different bikes and stayed for 2 hours. I want to say a massive thank you and appreciate this service so much. He has asked to go back, and his mum and I are hopeful this confidence will remain and grow.
I chatted to your staff and found them caring, responsive and helpful, they are a credit to the service and Calderdale Council."
