THOSE who work to end the cycle of violence in Glasgow have taken up... cycling.

Around 40 people - from police officers, medics, community workers and those who lives have been affected by violence - took part in a bike ride from Glasgow to Edinburgh.

Dubbed Recycle, the charity fundraiser was to raise cash for the Navigator programme, which operates from Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI).

Travelling more than 50 miles along the canal network, the event finished at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where the Navigator scheme has expanded to.

Recycle is raising money for a fund set up by the Navigators to help with small items that may be needed by those in immediate need, such as food and clothing.

Navigator Alan Gilmour works at GRI. He said: “The funds raised in the Recycle will make a huge difference to the lives of people experiencing real difficulties and challenges.

“There is a vulnerability surrounding a person’s journey toward a better and safer life.

"These small donations we make from time-to-time are received with such gratitude and appreciation as they can be so comforting and help so much.

“I’m not as young as I once was so the Recycle will be a challenge for me.

"However, the cause is so worthwhile and it’s great to be supported by those we work along side. This will be all the inspiration I need.

"It’s a privilege to be part of it.”

The Evening Times told of the Navigator project in July. The scheme is a Scottish Violence Reduction Unit and Medics Against Violence scheme that aims to help stop the revolving door of violent injury in hospitals.

The programme engages with patients at a moment when they may be open to breaking free from the challenges trapping them in violent situations.

The small but dedicated team of four Navigators complement the work of medical staff using a wide range of contacts with services outside the emergency room.

Inspector Keith Jack of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit is the project lead for Navigator and organiser of Recycle.

Inspector Jack said: “I would like to recognise the contribution of everyone taking part and the work they carry out in their communities, which can sometimes go without the praise or recognition it deserves.

Scotland has come a long way in reducing violence. But every victim is one too many and at Navigator we do our best to break the cycle of violence that can have such a devastating effect on both the lives of individuals and communities.”

The fund has also been used to help those affected by domestic violence with basic furniture as they attempt to build a new life free from abusive partners.

Alastair Ireland, Clinical Director of Emergency Medicine for North Glasgow added: “This event is about teamwork and people from a variety of backgrounds supporting each other through hardship.

"At GRI we are very proud to be co-hosts of the service with our colleagues in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and this event is another great chance to learn from each other" or words to that effect.”

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Williams said: “For too many people violence becomes a way of life and finding a way out can seem impossible.

"Navigator gives people a chance to break the cycle of violence, by supporting people to make different choices.

“Police Scotland is delighted to support "Recycle" and the fundraising efforts which will ensure that the incredible work of Navigator continues to deliver positive outcomes helping people to turn their lives around and make our communities safer."