We're delighted to be able to provide another 70 NHS key workers in and around Oxford to get out and about on two-wheels, thanks to funding from NHS Charities Together. 

Bikes for Key Workers was launched in April 2020 by Active Oxfordshire and is now run by Cyclox in partnership with a range of other organisations and an army of dedicated volunteer mechanics.  280 cycles have been handed over to NHS workers to date, and our further funding of £4,900 allows a further 70 workers to benefit.  

The Bikes for Key Workers programme donates bikes free of charge to NHS and social care keyworkers who can’t or prefer not to use public transport due to enhanced risk of infection. The cycles are donated by members of the public and are then checked over by volunteer mechanics, with final safety checks completed by qualified mechanics and bike shops.

Giving would-be cyclists a push

Julie Pink, Community Involvement Manager for Oxford Health Charity, said: “It is really rewarding to see money raised by members of the public helping to make great ideas like this one happen.

“Bids come into the charity from staff and groups involved in providing care through the Trust and we look at each one closely and do what we can to help. Clearly there is an even greater appetite for cycling since COVID-19 hit and the opportunity of a good quality and properly set up bike will enable more NHS workers to get pedalling.”

Josh Lenthall from Active Oxfordshire, said: “We’ve been delighted to see the impact that Bikes for Key Workers has had over the last six months, thanks to the incredible efforts of Cyclox and partners, the amazing volunteers and members of the public who have donated so generously.

“Oxfordshire is still facing unprecedented challenges as a result of COVID-19 and this generous grant from Oxford Health Charity will help another 70 key workers get to work safely and enjoy the significant benefits of active travel.”

John Upham, Oxford Health’s sustainability manager, said: “This is welcome addition to the promotion of active travel and will contribute to NHS long term ambitions for zero carbon and reducing air pollution.”

If you are able to donate a bike that is in good or reasonable condition or you could volunteer your time as a mechanic, please email [email protected]