A SCHEME that offers Basildon Hospital staff a chance to apply for a free bike has been shortlisted for a national award because of its environmental benefits.

Essex Pedal Power has distributed more than 140 bikes to hospital staff since it launched in 2023 and is up for the Toward Net Zero prize at the HSJ Awards.

The award category recognises NHS and healthcare projects that promote environmental sustainability.

The scheme involves providing a free bike to staff who work in services such as security, domestics and healthcare assistants and live in or around Basildon.

The bike is initially given as a loan for six months, and if it is used regularly then recipients can keep it, free of charge.

The bikes have been instrumental in reducing the environmental impact of staff travelling to work and in daily life. More than 2,600 trips have been taken by hospital staff since it began, which has led to two-thirds fewer car journeys and saved more than half a tonne of carbon dioxide emissions.

Preeti Sud, Director of Strategy and Innovation at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Essex Pedal Power has supported our staff at Basildon Hospital to cycle more, and not only has this reduced traffic on the roads, but it encourages healthy living and saves them money. The project has been made possible by our partnership with the Active Wellbeing Society and local authorities. Being shortlisted for the HSJ Award is a testament to everyone's hard work and commitment towards collaboration."

Essex Pedal Power is one of a number of schemes supported by the Trust's Anchor Programme, where it works with partners to help make local communities greener and support their wellbeing.

The winner of the category will be announced at the awards ceremony in London in November.

More information about the Trust's Anchor Programme is available at: www.mse.nhs.uk/anchor-programme