This year, Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May) is all about community - and for excellent reason. Feeling connected to others can lift your spirits, boost your wellbeing, and remind you that you’re part of something bigger.

At Beryl, we’re all about reconnecting people with their surroundings, their neighbours, and themselves - all through the power of local (and not to mention fun) movement.

So, if community spirit feels a bit out of reach right now, here’s a quick guide to getting closer with the help of a bike or e-scooter:

1. Ride Toward Shared Experiences. Join a Group, Find Your People!

Looking to meet new buddies with shared interests? Finding a common ground is a great way to form new friendships. From running clubs to choirs, community yoga classes to book groups, there are so many ways to tap into your local scene and be a part of something fun.

Avoid the after-work rush and let Beryl take you there, the perfect accomplice to zipping to your nearby park or community centre.

2. Plug Back Into Nature - Become a Friend of Your Local Park

If you’ve been craving some green space, consider joining a ‘Friends of’ group at your local park. These volunteer groups often host nature walks, clean-ups, and outdoor events. Match those green fingers with a green commute and arrive by bike or e-scooter.

Check the route before you go, Beryl parking bays are always placed in handy places, including in and around popular green spaces. 

3. Discover Local Causes - Volunteer

Communities are built on the principle of helping each other and there is something undeniably grounding and life-affirming about giving back. Volunteering at a soup kitchen or community project not only helps those in need but also brings you closer to others who care, forming tight bonds.

A quick Beryl ride can turn ‘maybe I will one day’ into ‘hello, I’m here and ready to help.’

4. Find Community on Your Doorstep

Neighbourhood events like pop-up markets and street fairs are fantastic ways to meet the people around you. Keep an eye on local noticeboards or community social media pages and mark them down in your calendar.

It can be intimidating to join activities, even ones in your local area, so why not double up and bring a friend to help you both feel connected? 

5. Get Active - Join a Local Sports Team

If you’re craving a little camaraderie and a lot of endorphins, why not join a local sports team? From casual kickabouts to community cycling clubs, there are plenty of ways to get moving with others. And with Beryl, getting to practice or meeting up for a post-game drink is just a quick ride away and saves your energy for the sports and socialising!