Walk, wheel, cycle, win: Barnsley businesses invited to reward staff who are active

Barnsley businesses are being invited to help their staff get moving this September as part of a new Workplace Challenge with BetterPoints Barnsley.

The challenge launches on World Car Free Day on 22 September and during Mode Shift Month. It encourages local employers to support staff to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport more often, using the free BetterPoints Barnsley app.

BetterPoints Barnsley launched across the borough in June. The free app rewards people for everyday active journeys, from the daily commute to a lunchtime walk. Users earn BetterPoints, a digital currency they can spend on high street vouchers, use with local businesses or donate to charity.

Businesses are encouraged to sign up and help staff build more movement into the working week, even if it starts with just ten minutes a day.

The Workplace Challenge is based on the percentage of staff taking part, rather than the total number of employees. This means a small independent business can compete on an equal footing with a major employer. One business in each of Barnsley's six Area Council areas will win £250 for a charity of their choice.

All app users, including staff who join through their workplace, are entered into regular prize draws when they reach activity milestones. Prizes include Barnsley Gift Cards worth £10 weekly, £20 monthly and £50 every two months.

Businesses that sign up will receive a toolkit, including a unique referral code and ready-to-use materials to help them promote the challenge to staff. Businesses can also earn rewards when they reach sign-up milestones, starting when 1% of staff have joined, with a top prize available when 50% of staff sign up.

Councillor David Goddard, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Transport, said:

“We want everyone in Barnsley to feel the benefits of being more active in a way that works for them. Small changes, like walking part of the school run, wheeling to the shops, cycling to work or getting out for a short lunchtime walk, can make a real difference to our health and wellbeing. This challenge is a simple way for local businesses to support their staff, celebrate active travel and give something back to charities that matter to them.”

Ryan Lewis, Programme Manager at BetterPoints, said:

“Barnsley BetterPoints launched successfully in June and residents across the borough have already signed up. We now want Barnsley businesses across all six council regions to get involved too. It costs nothing to take part, and it gives employers real evidence for their wellbeing and CSR reporting, while supporting local and national charities.”

Barnsley businesses interested in taking part are encouraged to get in touch with ryan.lewis@betterpoints.uk.

About BetterPoints

BetterPoints is a rewards app that encourages walking, wheeling and cycling by turning everyday active journeys into points that can be redeemed for local and national rewards. BetterPoints Barnsley operates in partnership with Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, supporting active travel across the borough's six Area Councils.