Cycling to work Scheme

“I started at the hospice in January last year, as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. The role is a trainee post and I am currently undertaking an accelerated Master’s degree apprenticeship at MMU.   

Have you always cycled to work? 

“In my previous role as a community Macmillan nurse covering East Cheshire, I wasn’t able to cycle to work as I needed my car to fulfil my role.  I used to run with Macclesfield Harriers, to keep fit, however with the added pressures of study and work I had been finding it difficult to fit exercise into my daily routine.   

“I decided to start cycling to work to fit exercise into my daily routine. 

“I borrowed a bike initially but then decided I needed something better. A friend suggested the cycle to work scheme, so I emailed and went to see Michelle Bradbury ask if it was something the hospice might consider.  I was also aware of several of my colleagues on the ward who also were interested in the scheme. 

“I picked my bike up about 10 weeks ago and I now cycle daily.”  

What are some of the benefits of cycling to work? 

“I have a gorgeous commute down the Middlewood way, and when I get to work, I feel really awake and alive, it is an amazing feeling really.  Even in bad or cold weather I still enjoy my commute and I feel it is really helping me mentally as well as physically.   It has inspired me to also start mountain biking with a group in my local area.”   

“It has really had a positive impact on me and my health.   

“I think a further benefit for me is I still love my running and cycling really complements this from a fitness aspect, and I feel it is really helpful for me as I am training for the London marathon also this year in October, it helps to give me a good level of fitness and stamina.”   

What are some of the things you’ve got through the scheme? 

“I was able to get a really nice commuter bike with front and rear hydraulic disk brakes.  I was also able to get a really good bike lock as well as a toolkit for any, I also added mudguards and some really good bike lights.  

“As part of the scheme, you also get discounted insurance, which I did take out in case of theft as I don’t want to be off-road long.”