A fortnight after thieves made off with their bikes, kids at Craigneuk Family Learning Centre are back in top gear.
Children and staff at the centre were gutted when three children’s and one adult bike were stolen two weeks ago.
However, help was at hand thanks to the council’s Restorative Justice team who provided the centre with ten new bikes.
Claire Grierson is the centre’s deputy head.
She said: “We had three children’s balance bikes and one adult bike stolen which we were all disappointed.
“We had worked previously with the Restorative Justice team when they helped develop our outdoor space at the centre.
“They were more than happy to help us again and the bikes they have given us are as good as new.
“We have given some of the bikes away to some of the kids who don’t have a bike for the summer holidays. It’s a fantastic initiative.”
The Restorative Justice team helps those serving Community Payback
Orders the chance to build on their rehabilitation and develop new skills while giving back to local communities.
Jane Gilmartin, service manager with North Lanarkshire Council’s Restorative Justice Team, said: “We were contacted by the Craigneuk Family Learning Centre to help improve their garden play area for the children.
“The children and teachers were very appreciative and we received a lovely email from them thanking us for the work.
“However, it was only a few weeks later that we heard someone had stolen bikes from the nursery.
“On hearing this, our Restorative Justice’s bike recycling workshop stepped in and donated the bikes which they refurbish in the workshop.
“This has allowed the children to continue with their healthy living programme.”
