Explore our History and Mission
Our Mission
Common Wheel’s mission is to provide meaningful activity for people with mental illness and dementia. We support people to live more fulfilled lives and play their full part in society. We are committed to helping people feel connected, engaged, and respected. We work every day to challenge stigma and help reduce loneliness.
Our Core Values are at the Heart of Everything We Do
We are here to make a difference. Above all, we focus on the needs of each of our participants and strive to support them to achieve the best life they can.
We value and respect everyone equally. Everyone has something to contribute and is welcome to be part of Common Wheel without discrimination. We treat people with respect and dignity.
We celebrate strengths, we nurture creativity and enjoy what we do.
We recognise that we are only one part of the landscape of support for people with mental ill health and we value the power of collaboration. We are committed and reliable partners – with our participants and with the other organisations we engage with.
Why Meaningful Activity Matters
People living with mental illness or dementia are often left out or forced to the sidelines. Common Wheel aims to change this by offering places where everyone counts and each achievement matters. Tasks can be practical, creative, or physical. What matters most is the chance to connect with others, learn something new, and enjoy a regular, structured activity.
Our activities are designed so people can keep coming back as often as they wish. There is no pressure to meet targets or compete. Our staff and volunteers are on hand with support if people want it. Each person’s journey is respected.
We have seen first hand how these opportunities improve people's lives:
Our History
In 1997, the idea of using bicycle recycling as a form of occupational therapy was developed. Three people drove this idea forward: Colin Guthrie, a local GP, Alistair Wilson, a Consultant Psychiatrist, and Neil McDonald, who had a love of cycling. Their shared experiences showed that practical work, like repairing bikes, could support mental health. It could help people regain skills, structure their time, and meet others.
1997
Colin Guthrie, Alistair Wilson, and Neil McDonald develop the idea of using bicycle recycling as a practical and social way to support people’s recovery, create structure, and reduce isolation for those living with mental illness.
1999
Common Wheel secures its very first bike workshop space in Maryhill, Glasgow. This welcoming hub, supported by Glasgow City Council, allows people to gain new skills, form friendships, and begin their journey towards greater wellbeing.
2001
On 14th of June, Common Wheel is awarded charitable status and registered as a limited company. This step marks a commitment to providing safe, supportive spaces where individuals facing mental illness can thrive through meaningful activities.
2004
Recognising the value of creativity, Julie De Simone and Alistair Wilson launch the music project. Starting with minimal resources, their dedication enables participants to find self-expression, joy, and connection through group music-making and workshops.
2006
A second bike workshop opens in Bridgeton, making it easier for more people across the city to access supportive, hands-on activity. This move strengthens our ties with Glasgow’s diverse communities and increases choices for everyone involved.
2015
On 31 March, Common Wheel becomes a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO). This strengthens our foundation, helps us build new partnerships, and keeps us focused on delivering quality services with care and equality at the heart.
2016-17
Listening to voices from our community, the team explores new ways to bring people together. A pilot visual arts project is launched, leading to the creation of the Carnival Club - a creative, social space where self-expression and collaboration are encouraged and celebrated.
2018-19
Trustee Judith Foster proposes indoor climbing as a new opportunity for mental and physical wellbeing. Research supports the idea, showing physical activity, especially in supportive groups, can have real benefits for people managing mental health challenges.
After carefully listening to participants, staff and volunteers, we ran a pilot indoor climbing course. The response was overwhelmingly positive! This new activity helps people build trust, confidence and connection in a safe and inclusive environment.
Today
Today, Common Wheel supports hundreds of people each year in Glasgow. Through workshops in bikes, music, visual arts, and climbing, we remain dedicated to offering meaningful activity, reducing isolation, and celebrating every person’s unique strengths and achievements.