Helping Out Programme

Helping Out Programme

The Helping Out Programme (HOP) is integral to the success of London Dynamo, ensuring that all members contribute fairly to fulfilling the club’s obligations to organisations such as British Cycling, the Surrey League, and Cycling Time Trials, as well as to the organisation of our own events and rides.

It is expected that all members participate in HOP, just like wearing club kit on rides. This collective effort allows the club to offer a wide range of activities, events, and races throughout the year.

Without HOP, these opportunities and the foundation of grass-roots cycle sport would not exist and the club would be poorer as a result.

Each year, in March, we publish a list of events and rotas for the upcoming 12 months, and members commit to specific roles. Whether it’s leading group rides, marshalling road races, or supporting club management, there are many ways to get involved.

Most roles only require a few hours of your time, but your commitment is essential for the club’s success. Many members find these roles rewarding and enjoyable, as they help support the club while getting to know fellow members.

However, a very small minority try to avoid helping out altogether,  this just isn’t fair especially if you are benefiting from the club activities.  If this is you, it maybe time to re-consider your membership.

Some members, may be granted a dispensation.  Circumstances change and if you are genuinely unable to commit in 2025 please contact us to discuss your situation.

There is a wide variety of HOP roles available, including:

  • Group ride leaders – for the Saturday Park Ride and Sunday morning rides.
  • Road Race support – marshalling, catering, signing on, or driving.
  • Hill Climb and Club Championships.
  • Website, communication, and graphic design roles.
  • Chaperoning Junior riders.
  • Organising the annual club Sportive.
  • Club Management – committee members or other designated roles.

We are always open to feedback and suggestions on how we can improve HOP and on the creation of new roles, so please share your thoughts & ideas with us.

FAQS

How do I register for HOP?

HOP is launched with a Dynamo newsletter and on the Forum with links to the registration system.

What if I joined the club part of the way through the year?

Do not worry if you joined the club part of the way through the year; if required, we will be in touch with you to ask you to sign up and explain the process.

*What if I am Under 18; Under 23 and in full time education outside London; a Distant Member?

If you have membership in one of these categories, you are not required to help out, nor are you required to register. We know who you are.

Can I pay more and not have to help out?

As useful as the extra subs used to be to club funds, we no longer have the capacity to provide this kind of dispensation from helping out.

Named Member of our National Race Team

We are proud of our club’s racers. Our top-flight have to train especially long and hard to get a place in our squad. And often travel out of region to represent us in National B competition. We gladly spare them additional time to formally help out.

What if I sign up for an event but then find that I cannot attend?

We understand that plans change but if this happens to you, please let your event manager know as soon as possible and you must accept responsibility to find a replacement. You will also be required to take on an alternative HOP option – the HOP Manager will contact you. Non-attendance or not finding a replacement puts events at risk of cancellation and is very bad for the club’s reputation. It is also likely to lead to an inquiry and possible sanction.

What if I do not help out over the course of the year?

If you do not help out, you may be sanctioned, and find that your membership renewal application for the following year is refused. This is at the committee’s discretion. It is very possible you will not be reminded to Help Out, nor warned if you have overlooked to register or failed to show at your nominated event or rota. So do be vigilant.

What if I have a health condition or extenuating circumstances that prevent me from helping out?

Special Dispensation is available on a discretionary basis. Please contact us or contact our Welfare Officer in confidence.

What if I have a question that is not dealt with above?

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.