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. Sara 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 Sara came across BetterPoints on social media, the timing couldn’t have been better. What began with walking to work has since led to more active travel and leisure trips - all bringing noticeable benefits to her health. Here’s what she had to say:
How did you find out about BetterPoints and why did you choose to get involved?
“It was either on Facebook or Instagram. It caught my attention as I had recently started to get into walking, and I saw that it was a programme specifically for people in Surrey.
Before joining the challenge, what were your travel habits like?
“I used to drive to work every day. That was until I moved house, which meant I was closer to the office in Woking.
After the house move I set myself the challenge of walking to work ever day. It takes me 15 minutes to get there on foot. Even though the car takes just 2 minutes, I know that walking is the better option for my health, particularly as I’m sitting down at my desk all day.
The app has given me motivation as it shows what I’ve achieved by making the change.
How has the app helped you? What features do you enjoy?
“It really does make my day to get a positive message saying I’ve earned a medal or hit the NHS recommended target of 150 minutes per week. Even though it means very little, it still feels like a significant achievement. I feel especially proud about it after a walk in the wet and cold.
I also find it very interesting to see the carbon saving that I’m making. I find all of these elements even more motivational than the points.
How have your habits changed since using the app?
“As well as my commute to work, I’ll now walk into the centre of Woking to do my shopping. I’ll no longer drive to the retail park. The only time I’ll use the car is to visit family who live far away.
On the weekend, my partner and I will go for walks along the canal from Woking to Guildford. We’ve recently visited the Devil’s Punch Bowl, where we did a 7 mile walk. It’s all good preparation for a walking holiday in the Lake District later this year.
What benefits have you noticed as a result?
“In terms of health, I suffer from high blood pressure, and I am overweight. Walking has helped a lot with both of these things. I feel a lot more energetic and don’t have heavy legs after a walk like I used to.”
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.
