Cycling survey at MK University Hospital

On 23rd September, three researchers from Cycling Citizens MK conducted a survey of hospital patients and staff.

79 people were surveyed: 72% were staff, 82% were MK residents, 65% were female. 80% came to MKUH today by car, 35% sometimes cycle, 10% have had a bicycle stolen in MK, and 6% cycle to work.

When asked 'what's preventing you from cycling more?', 14% said they have no bike, 10% said they weren't confident cycling, 10% said the roads and redways were too dangerous, 2% said bike security.

When asked 'what would help you cycle more?', 9% said help learning to ride, 9% said secure bike parking, 7% said affordable bike, 7% said social rides.

It is not easy to draw strong conclusions from a relatively small sample, but it would be appear that people who work at and visit the hospital would be helped to cycle if the hospital provided: help learning to ride, more secure bike parking, affordable bikes and social rides. Several comments were received from people who do not cycle saying they would like to cycle.

Initial recommendations:

• The Hospital can host a Bikeability training course organised by MK City Council instructors

• The Hospital can improve cycle parking facilities with advice from MK City Council on best facility types.

• The Hospital can re-publicise its Cycle to Work scheme and invite Cycle Saviours to visit with a range of refurbished bicycles for sale (and repair bikes too).

• The Hospital can advertise social rides organised by Cycling Citizens MK, The Parks Trust and others.

These are being developed with Hospital management.