Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that GPs in obesity hotspots will persuade people to start cycling as a part of their prescription. Cyclists will be able to procure £50 vouchers as a part of the “cycling revolution” drive to tackle obesity in the UK. The plan worth £2billion is aimed at helping the less fit and older to get back to a disciplined fitness regime.
This announcement has been welcomed by cycling charities who believe that this will ‘radically improve the quality of walking and cycling infrastructure’ in the UK.
Mr Johnson was quoted: “From helping people get fit and healthy – and lowering their risk of illness – to improving air quality and cutting congestion, cycling and walking have a huge role to play in tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face. But to build a healthier, more active nation, we need the right infrastructure, training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels. That’s why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel – so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling.”
According to Daily Mail, an initial 50,000 Fix Your Bike vouchers will be made available online shortly on a first served basis.
