Access: Practical solutions

Scooter and bus hire to improve access to work

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Accessibility planning is about helping people reach the jobs and services they require — particularly those members of the community who are most in need.

The WorkWise project in Merseyside is designed to solve transport problems that prevent people in deprived areas travelling to areas where they can find jobs. Six local authorities, including Liverpool City Council , have adopted the scheme to tackle high levels of unemployment — as much as 19% in some areas.

Practical help is a priority — the scheme enables people to hire a cycle or motor scooter for journeys to work, training or education. Also included are free insurance, breakdown cover, a helmet and compulsory motorbike training.

People starting a new job can get a free travelcard for the first month. The project also provides advice on journey planning and how to reach specific sites such as industrial estates.

In the past 18 months the scheme has helped more than 3,600 people with travelcards, scooter and cycle hire, while another 12,000 have used the journey-planning advice. And 80% of users stay in work after the initial support ends.

The main challenge for the scheme has been resources. John Smith, accessibility officer at Merseytravel passenger transport authority, explains that a £3m EU grant, match funded by Merseytravel, runs out at the end of this year. "It's very difficult to find other sources of funding," he says.

He says the key to success of such schemes is to show partners that accessible transport can help them hit their targets. "We go to Jobcentre Plus, for instance, and say this will help them achieve their aims at a national level."

Mr Smith emphasises the importance of engaging with partners. "We have a range of joint plans that all partners are signed up to over the five years the plan is in operation. We don't just say 'give us some money'."

Further information

WorkWise Merseyside John Smith, accessibility officer, Merseytravel.
Tel: 0151 330 1307

See Also

Talking to locals

Targeting the vulnerable

Engaging partners

Focus on health