Commuters from across the Tees Valley are taking the first step to a healthier, happier lifestyle by signing up to the second Let’s Go Tees Valley Commuter Challenge.
The week-long commuter challenge, will run from the 16th to the 22nd September 2019 and will see commuters swap some or all of their single-occupancy car journeys for walking, cycling, using the bus or the train or car sharing with colleagues, family or friends,.
Speaking on behalf of Let’s Go Tees Valley, Alex Kay said: “Many of us are looking for easy ways to get fitter, save money and reduce our environmental impact. At the same time employers want to boost staff wellbeing and reduce absenteeism. Choosing more active ways to commute, including walking to the bus stop or train station, as well as cycling, all contribute to achieving those outcomes.
“We’d like more Tees Valley commuters to stop and think before hopping in the car for local journeys. Nearly half of all car journeys are under two miles and these short trips have a huge impact on congestion and pollution in and around our towns. We know that people often don’t consider the car-free alternatives, and this is a great opportunity for them to try out new ways to travel.”
Staff from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust were amongst the first to sign-up to take part in September’s Commuter Challenge. The Trust is a keen promoter of employee wellbeing, encouraging staff to get more active and reducing single-occupancy car journeys to its sites in Teesside.
Gary Wright, Deputy Director of Workforce from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are delighted to be taking part in the Commuter Challenge once again. Our staff are located across the Tees Valley and we will be working with our employee engagement team to ensure the benefits of joining this initiative are communicated far and wide. Our goals for improving the overall health of people in the region go hand in hand with projects like this.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has praised the scheme for its benefits to the local area and is urging more commuters to take part.
He said: “We’re investing heavily to make cycling, walking, train and bus journeys as smooth, enjoyable and as fast as possible. Just last month I signed off advanced funding to kick-start a number of transport projects worth £45million, including cash to improve cycling and walking infrastructure.
“The Let’s Go Tees Valley Commuter Challenge is a great opportunity for people living and working in the region to explore using healthier and more sustainable forms of transport for their daily commute and enjoy the health benefits of being more active.”
Other employers who have signed up to the challenge include FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, Venator, South Tees University Hospital Trust, EE and HC One.