Score big, move more: Barnsley's new rewards app launches for summer of sport and activity

Barnsley residents can now earn points and win prizes simply by walking, wheeling, cycling, and taking public transport as a new free rewards app launches across the borough this week.

BetterPoints, a behaviour change app which rewards everyday physical activity, goes live in Barnsley today (15 June) ahead of a summer packed with sport and activity in the region.

Funded by Barnsley Council and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority through the Consolidated Active Travel Fund, the aim of the app is to encourage local people to move more and get out and active for at least ten minutes a day, while also helping to reduce car journeys and support local businesses.

The app rewards people with BetterPoints, a digital currency they can spend on high-street vouchers with brands like Argos, Amazon, Costa and Greggs, use in local businesses, supermarkets, and donate to charities.

As well as BetterPoints, the app has weekly, monthly and bi-monthly prize draws taking place to win Barnsley Gift cards which are redeemable at over 160 businesses. The programme is live across all six areas of Barnsley with over £4,000 of prizes up for grabs.

We’ll be marking its launch in the town in style with two World Cup-themed scavenger hunt events in partnership with Barnsley Football Club Community Trust.

The two free World Cup Walks will take place on Tuesday 16 June at 3.30pm at Locke Park, and Tuesday 23 June at 3.30pm at Mapplewell Park and they’re open to all residents to explore the park through a fun, family-friendly, football-themed activity trail.

Councillor Paul Kelly, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said:

"We're committed to making Barnsley a healthier and more connected place to live and that means investing in the things that help residents make positive changes in their daily lives.

“BetterPoints is a simple, free way for residents to get involved, earn rewards and feel the benefit of being more active. And because those rewards can be spent locally, it also helps support businesses right here in Barnsley.”

Kieron Campbell, CEO at Barnsley Football Club Community Trust, said:

"At Barnsley FC Community Trust, we believe that sport and physical activity have the power to transform lives, and that belief doesn't stop at the final whistle. Partnering with the council to host the World Cup Walks is a brilliant way to bring the community together, get people moving, and celebrate a summer of football in true Barnsley spirit. We can't wait to see residents and families out on the day. BetterPoints add an additional bonus to this.”

Jack Windle, Chief Sustainable Transport Officer for BetterPoints said:

"Barnsley is a borough that's on the move, and BetterPoints is the perfect companion for that journey. We know that small, everyday choices like a walk to the shops, cycling to work, jumping on the bus all add up to real change, both for people's health and for our streets.

“This programme makes those choices feel rewarding in the most literal sense, and we're proud to be bringing it to residents across all six areas of the council this summer."

The launch couldn't come at a better time. Barnsley residents have a summer of active events to look forward to and residents can earn BetterPoints across all of them:

• Barnsley 10K: 28 June, the boroughs biggest running event of the year.

• What’s Your Move Day: 12 July, enjoy a day filled with exciting activities in the town centre.

• Barnsley's Big Weekend: 11–12 July, free live entertainment and family activities in the town centre, including the Brassed On! Music Festival.

Every step, pedal, and journey taken to and from these events and others could count towards BetterPoints rewards.

How to get involved

BetterPoints is actively seeking local businesses and charities to join the programme as reward partners. Whether you're a café, cycle shop, community organisation, or local charity, partnering with BetterPoints will put your name in front of thousands of active, engaged Barnsley residents.

To find out more about becoming a partner, contact BetterPoints via the app.

Download BetterPoints free on the App Store or Google Play. Find out more at Barnsley.betterpoints.uk