The government announces a new million-pound programme to get more students and their families physically active in time for Bike to School Week
Schools across England are set to benefit from new funding to get more children riding their bike or walking to school, Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris has announced today (28 September 2020), as Bike to School Week gears up across the country.
A new million-pound programme will see cycle repair workshops set up in primary schools and local neighbourhoods to make sure students’ bikes are fit for the road.
‘Doctor Bike’ clinics will be rolled out next month, targeting areas where children, including those with disabilities, are more likely to need support in getting their bikes roadworthy for regular use on the school run.
Being physically active, such as cycling or walking to school, cuts the risk of developing health issues and helps kids to be more alert and ready to learn – positively impacting their health and wellbeing.
A further £1 million has also been announced to boost the number of children walking to school. The Walk to School Outreach Programme – which has already generated 4 million new walking trips – is being extended to roll out further measures to support walking.
This includes tackling the barriers that may prevent children and their families choosing to walk to and from school, as well as providing schools with classroom materials and access to local coordinators who can help schools get new walking initiatives up and running.
Cycling and Walking Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said:
CEO of Sustrans Xavier Brice said:
Today’s funding comes during Bike to School Week (28 September to 2 October) and ahead of Walk to School Week (5 October to 9 October).
The funding is part of a wider plan to create safer streets for cycling and walking, following the launch of the most ambitious plans yet, backed by £2 billion in government investment, to encourage even more people to choose active travel.
Bikeability training has also recently restarted in schools across England, helping children gain confidence and boost their cycling skills.