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TfL/UCL Cycle Safety Ambassador Scheme

Transport for London (TfL) is running a scheme promoting cycle safety at London universities. This is the first year of the scheme and UCL has been chosen to take part in the pilot.

We are looking for staff and students with a passion for cycling to become part of the new cycle safety project. Throughout the year, we will support cyclists with free cycle checks, bike tagging and a whole range of other initiatives aimed at making cycling a safer, smarter choice.

Free cycling support offered at UCL

Brand new in 2012, UCL is offering free cycling support to all students and staff. From cycle training to cycle maintenance checks and fun cycling events, everyone can sign up and cycle more safely in London.

Cycling in London is hugely popular as it’s a great, low-cost way to get about the capital that’s also good for your health. It’s important however, to understand how to cycle safely and check your bike so you can stay safe and confident on London’s roads.

Cycle Ambassadors have been recruited by Transport for London to deliver all levels of training, to co-ordinate events and cycle checks, and to help develop a cycling community for new and existing students and staff.  Ambassadors are not only qualified to conduct the training but will also be the main point of contact for all cycle-related queries and for any questions or concerns regarding cycle safety at your university.

If you are interested in becoming a cycle ambassador, email greenucl [at] ucl.ac.uk.

Cycle training sessions

We are holding a series of free training sessions for all levels. Supported by Transport for London, these will be run either by our cycle ambassadors, or by an external trainer, according to demand. Training will take place on and around the campus and will be conducted in small groups.

It is the perfect way to brush up your cycling skills, meet friends and learn more about your local area. There are four levels of training, from beginners to advanced, so it doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced cyclist or have never ridden a bike in London before, everyone can learn how to navigate the capital’s roads and busy junctions more safely and with greater confidence.

Adult Cycle Training is delivered (free of charge) one-to-one at a time and place to suit the trainee.

Beginners	New cyclists will learn how to handle a bike and cycle in a safe environment, such as a park. Sessions will be one-on-one and you may need more than one session.
Level 1	Cyclists will learn to undertake activities such as manoeuvring, signalling and using the gears correctly. Sessions will normally take place in a traffic-free zone in groups of up to 10.
Level 2	Cyclists will learn the skills and confidence to make trips around the university on London’s roads. Sessions will take place in a slow traffic environment on quiet roads in groups of up to 10. Training will cover junctions, signalling and road positioning.
Level 3	Cyclists will develop their understanding of London’s busy roads and the training will include complex junctions, hazards, on-the-move risk assessments and route planning. Useful to even the most experienced cyclists, this training is invaluable to ensure you stay safe on busy roads. Sessions will be one-on-one.

Here is a link to Camden’s cycle training booking form: https://forms.camden.gov.uk/cus/servlet/ep.app?ut=X&type=45648&auth=211.

Cycle check

Throughout the year, qualified bike mechanics will be available on campus to make sure your bike is fully roadworthy. These maintenance sessions are free and you can also get advice on minor bike repairs, such as how to check your gears and how to tighten the brakes.

Dates for your diary

The next cycle event will be on Thursday 31st January with lots of cycle-related activities including Dr Bike Mechanics, the Met Police free bike tagging stand, exchanging places (see how cyclists look to drivers of large vehicles) and information on the TfL cycle ambassador scheme.

Book your place/more information

To book a place for any of the activities or to for more information please contact greenucl [at] ucl.ac.uk.

Further information

For more information on cycling in London, including cycle safety tips, cycle journey planner and Barclays Cycle Hire, please see the Transport for London website.

Cycle Safety Tips - tfl.gov.uk/cyclesafety

Get Cycling – tfl.gov.uk/cycling

Cycle Journey Planner - tfl.gov.uk/cyclejourneyplanner

Barclays Cycle Hire – tfl.gov.uk/barclayscyclehire

Cycling and HGVs – tfl.gov.uk/freight

Free Cycle Guides - tfl.gov.uk/cycleguides

Special discounts and offers - tfl.gov.uk/cyclingoffers.

If you are interested in becoming a cycle ambassador or you would like further information, email greenucl [at] ucl.ac.uk.