Win £25 by inspiring others to switch to greener and healthier travel habits
The Surrey's Greener Future challenge allows everyone who lives, works or studies in Surrey to earn rewards and win prizes for walking, running, cycling and using public transport. One such prize is the Greener Future Star. Kasia was chosen as our latest winner and received 25,000 BetterPoints (£25) for sharing her story. For your chance to win, download the app via the buttons or QR code at the bottom of the page!
When Kasia discovered BetterPoints through a local council advert, she was looking for away to improve her health and manage stress. What began as a small step soon became a powerful motivator, transforming her daily habits and overall wellbeing. Here is what she had to say:
How did you find out about BetterPoints and why did you choose to get involved?
“I saw it on an advert from Surrey Heath Borough Council. It was January, and I was working in a sedentary, high-pressure job. I was in a bit of a hole. I wasn’t very active, and the stress was breeding more stress.
So I made the conscious decision to move more to help relieve the stress. I had problems with my cholesterol too, so I wanted to lower this and improve my health as a whole.
When I saw the advert, I thought, “Yes! This is just what I need”. So I downloaded it and as they say, the rest is history.
How has the app helped you? What features do you enjoy?
“It’s given me extra motivation to change, particularly the points earning. When I go for a walk I am conscious that the app is working in the background, and I’m being rewarded for it.
I received a Costa voucher when I first signed up, which was great, and I’ve earned quite a few points so far. I donated 1,000 BetterPoints to Woking Foodbank and will probably continue to donate more.
Not long after signing up I joined a gym. The app gave me the impetus to try it. I was on a roll.
How have your habits changed since using the app?
“I’ll now go for a walk 4 or 5 times a week, rather than 1 or 2 days. I work from home so I will break up the day with a walk at lunchtime or after work. I’ll occasionally do a walking meeting to make sure I am moving.
I’ve replaced many short car journeys too. I’m a lot more mindful of that. I will walk to the local shops and use public transport to get to the gym.
The last few weeks I have been walking to my physio appointment, rather than get a taxi. The taxi would take 8 minutes and cost £14, whereas the walk takes 30 minutes and is free. The time difference isn’t big and it’s the better option for my health and the environment.
What benefits have you noticed as a result?
“My mobility and flexibility have improved. My cholesterol levels have gone down, and I’ve lost weight as well.
I am happier than I was. Getting out for a walk is helpful for my emotional health as it means I’m often out in nature and meeting people. As I’m at home most days, being able to say “hi” to someone in person is really valuable.”
Not yet earning rewards for walking, wheeling, running, cycling and taking public transport? To join Surrey's Greener Future simply download the free BetterPoints app via the buttons or QR below and register an account with your Surrey postcode. If you live outside but commute in please enter the referral code: surreygf.
