It’s a multi-layered programme, delivering on multiple agendas and outcomes depending on the individual needs of the neighbourhoods. 

The Active Wellbeing Society has worked closely with the Active Essex Local Delivery Pilot and Essex County Council – together with local partners– to deliver a flagship programme that will see around 4,000 bikes given out to people living in the most disadvantaged communities in the County.  The scheme is part of Essex County Council’s Levelling Up strategy, focusing on  Basildon, Colchester, Clacton & Jaywick and Harwich & Dovercourt

TAWS has been integral to the successful delivery of the programme.  We have helped with the development of strategic partnerships with bike suppliers, the delivery of quality wrap around support for participants including free learn to ride lessons, free bike maintenance and free led bike rides, and activating cycling clubs to promote longevity of the scheme.

 Free bikes for NHS staff

We have also worked on a bespoke employee project for Essex Pedal Power in Basildon, providing over 120 free bikes to staff working in lower pay bands at Basildon University Hospital.  Since introducing the scheme, the hospital has seen an increase in staff retention, staff health and wellbeing and life satisfaction as well contributing towards the Trust’s net zero goals.

Connecting communities

The projects are often linked to new cycle infrastructure, and involved the installation of a £1.7m upgrade of the cycling path between Clacton and Jaywick Sands. The new high quality, segregated route has enabled residents to cycle safely to the shops and to see family and friends providing an important new active travel connection to an otherwise quite isolated coastal community.

Community benefits

Essex Pedal Power has delivered a host of benefits to the local community including improved access to training opportunities, education, and employment further afield.  Recipients have also said that they have benefitted from weight loss, an increase in physical activity levels and improved mental health.  

The programme is significantly supporting Essex’s climate change agenda, with cyclists reporting since receiving their bike, they use their car three times less a week on average, cutting both costs and emissions.