"It has truly transformed how I work, how I feel, and how I've grown as a professional."
County Durham Care Academy has been working with commissioned home care providers and Halfords to introduce a new cycling scheme which offers discounted e-bikes to home care providers in the county.
Since launching, seven providers have signed up to the scheme with 29 bikes now being used.
We have introduced the scheme to bring health and wellbeing benefits to home care staff, as well as support workers who do not drive.
Practical alternative
Cllr Howard Brown, our Cabinet member for adult and health services, said: "One of the main barriers to employment for home care workers is driving as travel is a key part of the job.
"These bikes offer a practical alternative which not only reduces travel time and costs but promotes staff well-being and enables workers to support more people who need care. We're pleased to be supporting both residents and home care workers through this scheme and look forward to seeing the longer-term positives the scheme will bring."
Significant benefits
One care worker taking part in the scheme is Cody Hall (pictured above) who works in community-based home care.
Before participating in the scheme, Cody found travelling by bus limited the number of people she could provide care for in a day.
However, cycling has made it quicker and easier for her to travel around the community.
She said: "One of the most significant benefits of cycling is that I can now visit more service users in their own homes efficiently and on time. My working hours are more productive, with less time spent on public transport or searching for parking."
Supporting wellbeing
Not only has the scheme allowed Cody to help more residents, but she has also found that cycling every day has brought benefits to her own wellbeing.
She added: "Since beginning to cycle to work, my overall fitness has noticeably improved. Regular cycling has boosted my energy levels, enhanced my mental wellbeing, and contributed to a healthier lifestyle. This has been especially important in a demanding home care role, where physical and emotional resilience are key.
"The scheme has also boosted my confidence. I feel more independent and empowered in my role. Being able to reach more service users has given me valuable experience supporting people across a wider range of needs, contributing to my professional development.
"It has truly transformed how I work, how I feel, and how I grow as a professional. The results have exceeded my expectations."