BetterPoints Oxfordshire allows everyone who lives, works or studies in Oxfordshire to earn rewards and win prizes for walking, running, cycling and using public transport. One such prize is the Oxfordshire Star. Ben was chosen as our latest winner and received 20,000 BetterPoints (£20) for sharing his story. For your chance to win, download the app via the App Store or Google Play or by scanning the QR code at the bottom of the page.
Banbury resident Ben joined BetterPoints Oxfordshire to help him to get healthier. 3 months in, he is walking to work every day and using the bus for longer journeys to Oxford. Here is what he had to say about his experience so far:
How did you find out about the app and why did you choose to get involved?
“I started following the Council on LinkedIn and I came across it there. I was trying to be healthier by walking more, so I decided to give it a try. What an amazing scheme it is!
What were your travel habits like before you joined the app?
“I would use the car regularly, especially during the winter months. I would sometimes walk or cycle but since using BetterPoints I have been a lot more consistent with choosing the healthier and more sustainable option to get around.
I now have the mindset that if have the time and ability to use an alternative to driving, I will.
How have your travel habits changed since using the app?
“I’ll regularly walk to work in Banbury, which is a 5km journey and takes about 50 minutes. I’ll wear a rain jacket if needs be and carry a backpack with my work clothes in. I get changed when I reach the office.
Banbury is perfect for walking. The footpaths are good and are well connected to the bus and train stations.
When I occasionally work in Oxford I’ll walk to the bus stop and get the S4 or X4 service. I’ve been really impressed by it, and at £3 it is a lot cheaper when you consider fuel and parking. As well as for work, I’ll now use the bus for meeting up with friends.
How has the app helped you? What features do you enjoy?
“I like seeing the metrics especially. It highlights the benefits of not driving from both a health and environmental perspective. Seeing the CO2 saved and minutes of physical activity build up over time encourages me to want to do more.
Initially, I was so focused on the stats that I hadn’t paid much attention to the points! Being able to get money off vouchers, especially with prices for everything going up, is a great thing.
What benefits have you noticed as a result?
“I am leaner and fitter than I was. If you walk consistently enough it makes a big difference to your physical and mental health.
I walk through the park to my local gym and, especially on days like today, it is very therapeutic.”
To join BetterPoints Oxfordshire, simply download the free BetterPoints app via the buttons or QR code below and register an account with your Oxfordshire postcode. If you live outside but commute in to the county please enter the referral code: bpoxooa.
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