Social cycling project in Denmark - cycling tour to the Tour de France for job seekers

Last year, the group was accompanied on the final stage by former professional cyclist Michael Rasmussen. Project manager Teddy la Cour Brigsted explains the background to the project in an interview.

TOUR: What is the core idea?

Brigsted: The idea is that the participants may have a sense of achievement for the first time in their lives. A sense of achievement, the feeling of being good at something and achieving such an extreme journey, boosts self-confidence and that helps to break destructive patterns and instil the belief that you can change your life. After conquering Alpe d'Huez, they are confident that they can do anything, including holding down a job or an apprenticeship. This gives them the chance to change their lives.

Who are the participants in the programme?
We take great care to find the right people. They must be living on benefits and have tried in vain to find a job or improve their education. They often lack self-confidence because they have rarely been successful. Some have had drug problems, psychological difficulties or a criminal past. They usually come from problematic families with unemployment or alcohol addiction.

What does the preparation look like?
In winter we start with walks, then we continue with spinning and in spring we get out on our bikes. The group also learns how to keep healthy on a budget, how to solve everyday problems and is prepared for working life.

How long has the project been running and what are your experiences?

We have had around 15 participants every year since 2013. Around 92 per cent get a job afterwards. Not as bike couriers, but we want to find long-term, stable jobs. And if they promise to continue cycling, they can even keep the racing bike.