NHS urged to take up cycling scheme

The NHS is being urged by doctors to take up the government’s Cycle to Work scheme .

Doctors Christopher Jack, Mirant Parikh, Max Edwards and Samuel Rajarantnam, who all work at the Princess Royal University Hospital, are leading the camapign and have written to the British Medical Journal saying that more NHS Trusts should sign up to the initiative, which allows employees to receive a tax-exempt loan with which to buy a bike and cycling equipment.

The letter states that despite the known health benefits of cycling to work, most NHS employees do not have access to the Cycle to Work scheme. Only 67 out of Britain’s 418 trusts are currently taking part in the scheme.

The letter goes on to say that mass participation by Trusts could result in health promotion to more than one million members of staff.

Cycling makes sense

Half of all journeys are less than 2 miles long – a distance that is ideal for walking or cycling. Yet many of these trips are made by car.
The great thing about walking and cycling is that you can build it into your everyday routing – cycle to work, walk with the kids to school. That means you’re more likely to keep it up – travelling green and getting fit at the same time.

Stop your bicycle being stolen

Try to stay one step ahead of bike thieves by taking the following simple steps:

• Insure your bike – according to research only 2 per cent of cyclists have adequate insurance. You may be covered on your household insurance policy, but read the small print. Spend a little time doing research before you buy cycle insurance as some providers offer much more for your money. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike.

• Buy a good lock – Aim to spend 10 per cent of your bike’s value on a stout lock and make sure you use it properly; always secure the frame and do not leave the lock on the ground as it makes it easier for the thief to smash

• Fit a basket – If all else fails, fit your bike with a basket on the front handlebars; even thieves have street cred!

What is the ETA?

The ETA provides motorists and cyclists with green breakdown cover and green insurance products and campaigns for sustainable transport