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Cycle Friendly Employers Conference: Success!

Cycle Friendly Employers Conference: Success!
The conference featured presentations from speakers who have practical, hands-on experience of persuading more people to try cycling to work. Presentations included:
  • Employers case study. Samira Khan from GSK (GlaxoSmithKline), of the UK’s most successful employers, has increased the number of people cycling to work from 50 to 350. One particular success has been the introduction of an innovative “bike miles” initiative. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Cycling and Health. Dr Harry Rutter from the South East Public Health observatory spoke persuasively about the links between physical activity and health. By encouraging cycling, employers gain a healthier, fitter, more punctual and more productive workforce. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Cycling in Bristol. Mike Ginger from Bristol City Council gave an overview of the city’s commitment to promoting cycling amongst employers as part of a wider commitment to travel Planning. Click here to download the presentation.

  • London commuting: an enriching experience? Rose Ades from Transport for London’s Cycling Centre of Excellence explained how a number of initiatives have motivated more people in the Capital to bike to work. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Tax efficient cycle purchase. New Government-backed concessions allow staff to purchase bikes through their employers free of Income Tax, National Insurance & VAT. Richard Grigsby, Director of Cyclescheme explained how it all works. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Bike Week. Nick Harvey, National Co-ordinator gave an overview of Bike Week and Bike2Work and explained how to maximise the potential of these high-profile events. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Practicalities. Peter Davenport, Managing Director of Cycle-Works, explained the importance of employers providing high quality cycle aprking. His presentation was illustrated with examples of modern, stylish equipment that keeps bikes safe and that also shows an organisation’s commitment to cycling. New double-decker cycle parking was exhibited. Click here to download the presentation.

  • Cycle training for staff. A surprisingly popular and extremely effective measure that inspires more people to take up cycling. Veronica Pollard and Steve Fisher from Life Cycle UK explained how to set up a cycle training day and other promotional activites at the workplace. Click here for more information.

The conference was opened by Sir Digby Jones, Director General of the CBI. In a stirring speech Sir Digby highlighted the cost of traffic congestion (£15-billion plus) to British industry and endorsed the efforts of progressive employers that have actively engaged with travel planning matters and supported alternatives to single-occupancy car travel.

date added: 09-05-2006