Cycling Advocacy Groups in the Workplace

Guys an’ Gals,

 

I’m at the very early stages of trying to set up a Cycling Advocacy/User Group at my place of work and I’m hoping the Adelaide Cyclists community can give me a few pointers.

 

What I’m aiming for initially is a small group helped by our internal social club to raise awareness via a cycle to work event and lay on a healthy breakfast for those that participate. My ultimate goal is to get enough interest to lobby the senior management and CEO to improve facilities for those that do cycle and maybe sponsorship on some of the charity rides.

 

Unfortunately it’s going to be an uphill struggle as the company has a poor record as a good corporate citizen and does not put its money where its mouth is even when it benefits the company as well as it employees.

I’m certainly starting off quietly and not making a big noise about it or asking for heaps of money. Make firm foundations and build big will be my motto.

 

Your input is much appreciated.

 

Paul.  

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Permalink Reply by Kara T on April 13, 2011 at 12:57

The ride to work site might be able to help, that's a good initiative to get people cycling, but it's generally held in October: http://www.bv.com.au/general/ride-to-work/ They might have some ideas though.

 

 

 

 

Permalink Reply by Cribber on April 13, 2011 at 13:28

Thanks Kara, what an awesome online resource!!!!

It has heaps of ideas for Workplace BUG's.

 

I'd like to hear from anyone who has experience of setting one up, especially if they've had management resistance.

Permalink Reply by Clive Palfrey on April 13, 2011 at 14:01
Send a PM to Jeremy Miller, he is chairperson for the Bicycle Institute of SA and would be able to offer a number of contacts for info.
Permalink Reply by heather on April 13, 2011 at 14:22

You can see a list of some of the existing SA BUGs at http://www.bisa.asn.au

For referenced reasons on why to encourage cycling, read the data sheets of the Cycling Promotion Fund at http://www.cyclingpromotion.com.au May assist when talking with management.

Sydney in NSW has worked out that traffic congestion costs businesses money, when company vehicles are stalled in traffic. Will management consider this a reason to encourage more people to cycle?

Permalink Reply by Mike Brisco on April 13, 2011 at 17:55

Re advocacy -   if lobbying  management -  express it in dollars.   Put a $ value on people cycling not driving to work.  E.g less car parking space/maintenance.  Health benefits = save costs on subsidising fitness clubs, saving cost of sickness days. Another money-type argument: find ways to improve facilities  but without costing the company anything - e.g using unused space, provide facilities yourselves. Then you are merely asking permission, not asking for help. A third tip, is collect data on people who cycle, how far, and facilities they would like. Along with money argument, shows there is demand.

Arguments pro cycling, can be put in all sorts of other ways . Some would see improved health, as a worthwhile end in itself. Others  see as valuable, the environmental benefits. However, under our  system, corporations exist to make money for shareholders. Directors duties, are to maximise returns to shareholders.  So more likely to get what you seek, if it translates instantly into saved costs, or increased productivity.

Cycling Promotion Fund used to have a leaflet on work facilities. If not, try Bicycle Victoria - all available as .pdf. 

Permalink Reply by Andrew Dickson on April 13, 2011 at 18:32
Excellent advice, Mike.
Permalink Reply by Mike Brisco on April 13, 2011 at 17:57
PS

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