UK Cycle2Work

cfsmtb

If you like the subject discussed in these following articles, then consider drafting a nice letter to either your HR Manager and local Federal MP.

More on Cycle2Work (UK)
http://www.cycle2work.net/

The Independent: Hey, boss - buy me a bike (Feb 28, 2006)
http://www.findarticles.com/p/artic...28/ai_n16198112

BTW - anyone from here or the UK had any experience with this scheme?

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Wheel meet again
http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/viewa....aspx?id=440597
Published on 30/11/2006
Image: Vickers workers crossing the High Level Bridge (Michaelson road) 1957.

A SEA of bicycles was once a common sight as shipyard workers made their way to the shipyard.

Thousands of bikes used to flood across Michaelson Road Bridge during the 1950s. At present, 300 workers cycle to Barrow shipyard.

But pedal power is set to make a comeback as the government aims to get more people back into the saddle. Workers will get half price bicycles if they agree to pedal to work instead of driving. It is part of a Cycle2Work scheme to promote healthier working and combat global warming.

The Department of Transport is offering the discounts to cut the number of cars on the road. Money is taken from workers’ salaries. They will have the chance to buy a bike cheaply between December and spring next year for work and leisure related activities under Cycle2Work.

It means they could get bikes worth up to £600, making savings of 46 per cent. The scheme is to be pushed via leaflets and a poster campaign.

BAE’s employee involvement manager Joe Sides said: “Even more valuable than the savings people will enjoy when participating in the Cycle2Work scheme, they can also expect to benefit from increased energy levels, stress reduction and even weight loss if they get on their bike as part of a daily routine.”

Repayments for bikes will be spread over a year and the “salary sacrifice” scheme allows savings in tax and national insurance that help fund the bikes.

Promoters of Cycle2Work says pedal power is “greener, cleaner and more cost effective” than driving.

A spokesman for Halfords, which pioneered the scheme in the UK, said: “The employee incurs no Income Tax and National Insurance on this benefit. Where there is a direct business benefit from implementing Cycle2Work (for example as part of a Green Transport Plan or improving employee health/attendance which our schemes all deliver) VAT may be reclaimed and passed on to staff.

“In total, combined savings on Income Tax, National Insurance and potentially VAT contributions of up to 50 per cent of the value of the bicycle and cycle safety equipment can be achieved.”

Former shipyard worker and secretary of the Barrow Trades Union Council Bob Pointer said: “In these days of global warming I think you’ve got to try and encourage people to walk or use their bike. A lot of people get in their cars when they could quite easily walk.

“I think a few people will go for it but it won’t be like the old days when the buzzer went for home and there was a cavalry charge of bikes.”

Shipyard trades union safety chief Steve Scott already cycles to work like many others.

He said: “There are lots of cyclists at the yard, but I’m sure a few more motorists would be interested in buying a bike as well. It’s an excellent idea not just for people’s health and well being but for the green effect as well.”

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Noli nothis permittere te terere