Western Isles Hospital and Dental Centre awarded as Cycling Friendly Employers

The Western Isles Hospital and Dental Centre have received their awards from Cycling Scotland, the nation’s cycling organisation, for their commitment to making it easier for people to get on their bikes.

The nationally recognised award recognises organisations – from workplaces to schools, community groups to campuses – that have contributed to promoting cycling as a healthy and sustainable travel choice.

In order to achieve the Cycling Friendly award, the  Western Isles Hospital and Dental Centre have encouraged staff to travel by bike by:

· Increasing the cap on the Cycle2Work scheme certificate from £1000 to £1500 for NHS staff.

· Hosting cycling events such as “Get bike Ready”.

· Promoting national cycling events such as Bike Week and Cycle September.

· Developing a dedicated Cycling micro site and Cycling Team Channel.

· Securing funding to install improved Cycle shelters at NHS premises throughout the Western Isles.

The award aims to encourage and support organisations across Scotland to take a leading role in ensuring that anyone, anywhere can enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Evelyn Macleod, NHS Western Isles cycling champion, said: “As NHSWI Cycling Champion, I am excited to see the organisation work towards, and achieve an award like this, that reflects its ongoing commitment to encourage, and make cycling to our sites more accessible for staff and visitors alike. Not only is cycling to work a more sustainable and affordable option, but in my experience, it also greatly benefits both mental and physical health. I hope that these, and future developments, result in more of my colleagues being able to access these benefits.”

More information about the Cycling Friendly programme can be found here: https://www.cycling.scot/our-programmes