Business in the Community supports the launch of DFT’s Cycle to Work Guarantee

Launched on the 28 October 2009 at University College Hospital by the Secretary of State for Transport Lord Adonis, the voluntary scheme is part of the government’s strategy to encourage sustainable travel.

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We are always looking at new ways to encourage staff to cycle to work as we believe cycling has a strong role to play in promoting sustainable transport options, whilst at the same time encouraging a more healthy life style. We will continue to encourage cycling into the future and we are demonstrating this commitment by signing up to the Cycle to Work Guarantee scheme.

Business in the Community is appealing to all their members to commit to the Cycle to Work Guarantee. 

The website enables companies to signal their intention to become a cycle friendly employer, and employees will be able to see if their employer is aiming to become more cycle friendly.

Removing the barriers

Currently only 3% of employees cycle to work(1) and the Department for Transport wants employers to play a role in increasing the number of people who commute via bike.

Some people may not cycle to work because there is nowhere for them to shower and change, or securely lock up their bike. The DFT believes that by putting a series of simple, relatively low cost measures into place, employers could help make cycling an attractive, viable option for travelling into work.

The Guarantee commits supporting employers to provide the following:

• Secure, safe and accessible bike parking facilities for all staff who want them

• Good quality changing and locker facilities for all staff who want them

• Offset the cost of cycling equipment through the big tax savings of the ‘Cycle to work’ scheme

• Bike repair available for cyclists on or near site

• An implementation plan including targets for take-up, training and incentives to cycle

To sign up your company please visit the website.

More bikes on the streets

A combination of the recession, the UK’s good cycling performance at the 2008 Olympics and the Government’s support for and investment in cycling over recent years (eg: the £10m investment to improve cycle facilities at London’s mainline stations) has lead to an increase in cycle purchases.

The DFT is canvassing employers to support employees cycling to work as it creates a healthier, greener and more productive organisation.

Find out more 

To find out more about how cycling to work can help keep you and your employees fit and healthy, visit our Health and Wellbeing pages.

(1) Department For Transport, 2007