New e-bike scheme aims to boost job opportunities

People are being helped to get to work independently through an e-bike scheme.

The Guernsey Employment Trust (GET), which works with disabled and neurodivergent people said it had given three electric bikes to its clients to improve their access to jobs.

Cameron, who is using one of the e-bikes, said it had helped him regain his "confidence and independence".

The trust teamed up with the John Ramplin Charitable Trust, CycleWorld and the Health Improvement Commission to provide the bikes in the hope of removing transport barriers.

Another GET client, Kate said: "Getting through town feels like a huge achievement - even if the roundabout was quite intimidating."

Ben Walden, owner of CycleWorld - which provided the e-bikes and servicing, said: "We've seen first-hand the difference they make, bringing freedom, flexibility and health benefits."

GET's chief executive Nikki Loannou-Droushiotis said the scheme had been fantastic for its clients "increasing independence, reducing financial pressures and encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles".

She added the scheme had "removed a significant barrier to employment, opening up opportunities that were previously out of reach".

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].