Active ways to work – NHS Fife e-bike hire
A People and Place case study
Through our People and Place programme, we fund Greener Kirkcaldy. Once of the projects they run allows NHS Fife staff at Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy to hire an e-bike to use to get to and from work.
Tommy, who’s hired an e-bike four times, each for a month at a time, explains how helpful this initiative is to him.
What’s your typical regular journey? I ride 8 miles from Glenrothes to Kirkcaldy, mainly on cycling infrastructure – using the cycle path via Kinglassie. I’ve clocked up nearly 1,500 miles now which is some saving.
Why chose a bike for that? I do drive a car, however at age 54 I had 2 x hip replacements, my hip was hurting, it really helps my hip free up and stay strong, I’m not on meds now, which is great as I had to take them before for the pain.
What feels good about riding? It’s pleasurable and some me time.
What sucks? Getting punctures, I’ve had two now from glass on infrastructure. Also, on a nightshift my tyre was damage by vandalism at Cameron hospital in Leven – someone slashed the tyre. They don’t have the storage containers like they do at Dunfermline or Kirkcaldy. I use those to keep my bike dry and a bit safer now.
What would you tidy up? No, nothing, it’s a fantastic service. If I where picky, longer booking would be great, but I’m just grateful this exists.
Biggest life changes the e-bike has made? Fresh air, it’s a game changer for sure. I really love my bike time, e-bike is key, I can change the assistance to suit my needs and conditions. Nightshifts were hard but the glory hour seeing the sun come up after night shift is magical.
What could Greener Kirkcaldy do more of? More promo and demos, I like that the bikes are part of the main induction but its spreading the word existing staff. I spotted the scheme on tour internal intranet, it caught my attention on the main picture.