New bike to work scheme gives staff bespoke benefits
Friday, 13 June 2014
Get fit, save money and go green this summer by joining the University's new Cycle2work scheme.
Launching this month, in conjunction with Halfords, the scheme allows staff to hire a bike and safety and security accessories through a salary exchange arrangement. This scheme forms part of a package of travel benefits for staff which take advantage of tax and National Insurance savings.
Providing the main use of the bike is for commuting to work you will incur no tax or National Insurance on the benefit. This means staff will save a vast amount of money compared to purchasing a new bike outright and be able to spread the cost.
Claire Eckett, HR Manager for Reward & Benefits, said: "We are delighted to bring Cycle2work to the University. The scheme is a fantastic way for colleagues to improve health and fitness, save money and help the environment. You can choose a bike and accessories up to the value of £1,000 and can make savings of up to 40%! There is a choice from a wide range of bikes available from either Halfords or a number of participating independent bike shops. Cycletowork is only available to staff, however, Halfords are offering a special discount to students on Apollo and Carrera bikes.
"We are also excited to be launching mycar, a car leasing salary sacrifice exchange scheme, on Wednesday 18 June. Mycar is the low-cost, hassle-free, scheme which allows UoR employees and their family members to drive a brand new car for two or three years for an all-inclusive fixed monthly cost to suit your budget, with no deposit or upfront payment required. All you have to do is add fuel and go! To support the University's sustainability agenda only vehicles with low CO2 emissions can be obtained through the scheme.
Staff can find out more about Cycle2work and mycar at Supporting You on 18 June.
The launch of Cycle2work coincides with next week's National Bike Week where staff and students can gear up for a number of helpful initiatives. On Monday 16 Dr Bike will be on hand between 12 and 2 outside Palmer to mend or service staff's two-wheeled ride for free.
The University is also proud to be involved in ReadyBike, Reading's brand new on street hire bike scheme that launched this week. Staff can hire a bike from £1 per hour from docking stations around Reading including Whiteknights, Earley Gate and London Road campuses as well as at Christchurch Green. Register online to get started.
"On Monday lunchtime colleagues can try the ReadyBike scheme out for free and take a guided ride around campus," said Karen Stanbridge, the University's Sustainable Travel Coordinator. "Places will be limited so for more information or to reserve your spot please contact javed.saddique@CTC.ORG.UK. Colleagues are advised to bring their own helmet but there will be a limited number available to borrow.
"Staff and students can also benefit from Reading's first fix-it-yourself bike workshop. Reading Bicycle Kitchen will provide the work stands, tools and mechanics - you bring your bike and they'll show you how to do anything from fixing a puncture to a complete overhaul. Their launch event is this Saturday 10am - 4pm, Jacksons Corner. The event will include freebies and kids' activities."
Find out about other sustainable travel initiatives