Success for CSWP’s Wheels to Work scheme

Added: (Fri Mar 12 2010)

Pressbox (Press Release) - Two wheels are proving to be the way for people across Warwickshire to take advantage of a transport support service.

More than 3,000 people whose lack of transport affects their job prospects have made the most of the Wheels to Work programme since it was established 11 years ago.

The scheme is run by the Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership (CSWP) and involves mopeds being lent to people who do not have access to suitable public transport to access employment, for up to six months. The project also supports individuals with travel planning their journeys.

The scheme is part funded by Advantage West Midlands and is open to anyone of an employable age who lives in Warwickshire and does not have access to public transport to gain employment opportunities.

Seventy-five people across the county have expressed an interest in the scheme this year, including 17-year-old Callum Knowles, of Exhall in Bedworth, who uses one of the mopeds to get to and from his employment and training.

“I first found out about Wheels to Work through the Connexions service and was surprised just how easy it was to sign up for the scheme,” the former St Nicholas Chamberlaine School pupil said.

“It was costing me about £20 a week to get to my placement and back on the bus before, whereas the moped costs me about half that, so it makes a big difference and it is helping me to save up for my own transport.

“A round trip on the bus could also take more than hour which is twice as long as travelling on the moped so it has made my life a lot easier.

“It is great to have the moped while I learn to drive and I would definitely recommend the scheme to other people.”

Once enrolled on the scheme applicants are required to pay a £25 non-refundable deposit and £30 a month towards the upkeep of the moped, which includes servicing and normal wear and tear repairs. The bikes are on loan for a 6 month period.

For more information on the Wheels to Work scheme contact Abbey Powell on 02476 707 618, email transportsolutions@cswp.org.uk or log onto www.iyss.org.uk



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