Common Wheel has reached a major milestone – 25 years of service in Glasgow. Since 1997, we have been working with young people and adults living with mental illness or dementia, offering meaningful activities and support in the heart of the community.

A Brief History

What started as a simple idea – using bicycle recycling as occupational therapy – has now grown into a city-wide project. The idea came together thanks to Colin Guthrie, Alistair Wilson, and Neil McDonald with the backing of Glasgow City Council. By 1999, Common Wheel opened its first bike workshop. The aim was always clear: improve lives, reduce isolation, and challenge stigma.

Fast forward to today, and that early bike project has expanded. Common Wheel now runs Build Your Own Bike groups, music workshops, visual arts sessions, climbing sessions, community gardending and more. All are provided free of charge to adults and young people affected by mental illness or dementia.

Our Mission

From the beginning, the goal has been to help people feel valued, develop skills, and connect with others. Our activities bring people together, open new opportunities, and make it easier to cope with day-to-day challenges. Common Wheel works in places like Campbell House, The Nook, and community venues right across the city.

Projects that Make a Difference

• Build Your Own Bike sessions let people select a bike, strip it down, rebuild it, and take the finished bike home. It is about learning new skills but also about ownership and pride.
• Music workshops are led by professional musicians and welcome all skill levels. There is no need for any experience, just a willingness to take part.
• Visual Arts groups give people the chance to create, try something new, and share ideas in a relaxed setting.
• Climbing sessions support people to challenge themselves at their own pace, in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere.

Every activity helps break down barriers and create community links, offering a safe space for everyone.

Thank You to Our Community

None of this work would be possible without continued support. Funders, volunteers, local organisations and the wider community all play a part. Common Wheel’s team of staff and volunteers work hard to keep every activity free and accessible for everyone taking part.

A special thanks goes out to everyone who has been part of Common Wheel’s journey over these 25 years. Whether you took part in a workshop, donated, volunteered, or partnered with us, your involvement has helped shape what Common Wheel is now.

Looking Ahead

Our vision remains simple. We want everyone living with mental illness in Glasgow to enjoy a meaningful and satisfying life and to have the chance to contribute to society. As we celebrate 25 years, we look forward to many more to come – building community, reducing isolation, and supporting mental wellbeing through creativity and activity.

Here’s to the next chapter for Common Wheel.