A new “resource” has been launched in Guernsey to help employers support staff in active travel, such as cycling, walking, or bus use, for their commutes.
The initiative follows a recent change in local tax legislation, allowing employers to subsidise bike purchases for employees without it being a taxable benefit in kind, provided certain conditions are met.
The new leaflet, available online, (HERE), and at local bike shops, GP surgeries, and at Beau Sejour Leisure Centre, outlines options for employers, including bus pass support, encouragement for walking, and flexible arrangements for bike purchases.
Those behind the initiative say it was developed with local stakeholders to be suitable for all employers.
Dani Bennett, from the Better Journeys Project, says the initial response from employers has been encouraging: “We’ve had really positive feedback so far — especially about the table that breaks down all of the options,”
Ms Bennett added: “It clearly shows whether an option is taxable, whether it requires any payroll admin, who pays for repairs, and so on. That’s made it very easy for employers to see what would work best in their own setting.”
Whilst Amy Woollaston, an Active Travel Officer at the Health Improvement Commission, emphasised that supporting active travel improves employee health and wellbeing:“Regular physical activity plays an important role in maintaining good health and with everyone leading such busy lives these days, cycling to work is one of the easiest and most convenient ways of staying active for those who have sedentary jobs.”
Ms Woollaston continued: “The Employer Supported Better Journeys resource is a comprehensive and easy to use guide and the Health Improvement Commission encourages employers to get behind the scheme as supporting active travel will have a positive impact on employee health and wellbeing which, in turn, will bring wider benefits to the company.”
Matt Collas, Travel Plan Co-ordinator at Admiral Park Plaza, highlighted that the guide addresses the cost of buying a bike: “The cost of buying a bike is frequently cited in Admiral Park Plaza user surveys as a barrier to cycling to and from work. Bringing all available lending options together in one easy-to-use guide is a valuable resource for employers, helping them compare and choose the best option for their business.
Mr Collas concluded: “The guide also serves as a useful conversation starter, which will hopefully lead to more people being able to choose active travel as part of their commute.”