Teens Unite

“To still have these facilities more than a decade after the Olympics is incredible. We’re standing in the history of London. Its legacy is still going strong. We’re able to tell the younger ones what a big deal it is to just be here.” – James, ambassador for Teens Unite

At the age of 19 James was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He was supported by Teens Unite, and eight years on is now a youth ambassador for the charity that helps teenagers and those in their early 20s following a cancer diagnosis. We caught up with him during a day at Lee Valley VeloPark, where 20 young people living with or in remission from cancer were trying out their new bikes on the centre’s road circuit.

The day was organised by Teens Unite and funded by Lee Valley Regional Park’s Community Access Fund. With bikes gifted by o3e and IFS, and coaching provided by British Cycling, it was a team effort to help this group of young people get back on a bike and start a six week journey to regain their cycling confidence.

“What an amazing experience the trip to Lee Valley VeloPark has been. To be able to cycle around this Olympic venue is unbelievable. Wow,” said James. “What you notice when you arrive is how well maintained it is. It feels safe and very friendly. It has been a big draw today and made the day extra special. I’m training for an Iron Man event, so this has been really good experience for me. Teens Unite is a big part of my life. I really struggled with isolation after my diagnosis. I’ve built a community for the rest of my life where we all support each other.”

Twenty young people aged 13-24 enjoyed Teens Unite’s Bike and Unite launch, a six week programme which supports with rebuilding fitness, confidence and physical ability; held on the iconic venue’s outdoor road circuit.

“Many young people are nervous to get back into activity following their diagnosis or treatment, said Katie Andrew, Teens Unite Beneficiary Engagement Manager. “Events like this offer a way for them to reconnect with their bodies in a safe and supportive environment. People can go at their own pace and do what’s that’s right for them. Some have anxiety yet here they can support each other. It often takes something special for young people to sign up for events when they have so much going on and the pull of an Olympic legacy venue is definitely special, so we are very grateful for the support we receive from Lee Valley Regional Park Authority’s Community Access Fund to make this happen. Today we have young people that have travelled from across the UK to be here - from Bournemouth, Hampshire and even Wales.”

Community groups, charities and schools can apply for funding support from the Authority’s Community Access Fund to help pay for travel to, coaching or venue hire for experiences at our world class venues or award winning open spaces.

Kai is a gas engineer from Newport in Wales who travelled more than four hours to take part in the day. “I was active before my diagnosis, but I lost so much bodyweight and muscle during treatment. When this popped up, I felt this was a day where I could really challenge myself. Not long ago I couldn’t even walk up the stairs. I’m a huge BMX fan so to even get a look at the track where the Olympics took place was so special. Normally I am at home doing nothing all day as I can’t go back to work yet, so this has been a day out, a change of scene. I’ve met new people. It’s been the highlight of my week.”

This is the fourth event the Authority’s CAF fund has supported for Teens Unite in recent years, providing confidence building fun and active days for young people. Previous experiences have also taken place at sister Olympic legacy venue Lee Valley White Water Centre, Hertfordshire.

Information on how to apply for our CAF support for your community group here.