August 22, 2025
Great news as the free bikes for Nottingham jobseekers project has been extended until April 2026 thanks to funding from the Active Travel Capability Fund. Nottingham City Council, in partnership with Sustrans, can continue to help jobseekers in Nottingham by providing travel assistance and free refurbished bikes.
During the first phase of the project it was clear that access to low-cost transport was a major issue for many people who are looking for work. As the anticipated end of the project got closer, there were still a large number of people wanting bikes.
The bikes and support are intended to help give jobseekers the skills and confidence to use the bike to travel to job interviews, work, training, education, or volunteering opportunities. Participants get to keep the bikes permanently, allowing them to continue enjoying the physical and mental health benefits of cycling.
The first phase of the project was a success. Some highlights include:
- Sustrans chatting with over 280 jobseekers at events
- 88 people receiving travel planning advice, with 78 receiving written route suggestions and advice
- 45 jobseekers receiving a free refurbished bike with accessories to allow them to ride
- Jobseekers having training on how to maintain and use their bike
- 90% of participants say they now cycle more
- Over 90% of participants say they are now able to travel further for job opportunities
A participant said: “Without the bike maintenance training I would have been at an absolute loss as to what I was doing. I also want to express how accommodating and great [Sustrans Staff] were at getting me a bike sorted… I felt they went out of their way to help get me riding a bike that day.”
Another participant stated how much easier it would be to travel now: “I spoke to my job coach about getting money for a bus fare after my bike was stolen and he told me about the project. It’s been a nightmare not having a bike and having to catch a bus or two. Bikes are quicker because I can go direct instead of taking a bus into town and another one out again.”
Sustrans are making it easier for people to walk and cycle. You can follow Sustrans East Midlands on Facebook here.
For more information about the jobseekers scheme, please email [email protected].