Hospital Travel Plans: A Step Towards a Healthier, Greener Future

Hospitals are among the busiest places in any town or city. Not only do they serve hundreds of patients and visitors daily, but they are also often one of the largest local employers. 

In England alone, the NHS operates over 200 hospital sites and employs 1.3 million people - making hospitals a major destination for commuter journeys and a significant contributor to transport-related carbon emissions and other impacts. 

The Challenge: Transport Impacts and Public Health

The NHS has committed to reaching net zero by 2040 and a major part of this effort involves tackling carbon emissions from transport. In the UK, transport accounts for 24% of total greenhouse gas emissions, and the thousands of daily journeys to hospitals—whether by staff, patients, or suppliers—have a significant environmental impact.  

But the issue isn't just about carbon. More cars on the road mean:  
- Higher air pollution – Poor air quality contributes to up to 40,000 premature deaths per year in the UK, placing additional strain on the NHS.  
- Increased road collisions – Road collisions cause immense personal suffering and cost the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds annually in emergency care.  
- Sedentary lifestyles – Over-reliance on cars reduces physical activity, worsening obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. 

Image credit: NHS

Our Work with Kettering General Hospital

We've been proud to support Kettering General Hospital in developing its award-winning travel plan. The hospital was the first ever to be awarded the prestigious 'Modeshift STARS Healthcare Site of the Year' for its efforts in achieving three consecutive levels of Modeshift STARS accreditation. Find out more about what went into their schemes in our future blog.

Overall Benefits

By improving cycling facilities, public transport access, and staff incentives travel plans for hospitals can:  

- Cut carbon emissions and improve local air quality
- Boost staff health and morale  
- Reduce traffic and parking pressures

This initiative is a win for the environment, public health, and the hospital community. By making sustainable travel the easiest choice, you are building a healthier, happier, and greener future for all.  

Are you involved in developing your hospital or healthcare setting’s travel plan? Check out our ‘Your Hospital’ section  for great tips and resources to help you on your way.
 

Here at Brightwayz social enterprise we love to provide information and tips to help you, your colleagues, friends and family travel in safe, active, sustainable ways for everyday journeys.

Our unique range of products is here to help support your active travel campaigns and 100% of profits from sales is ploughed back to support the work we do. Take a look at our range here and find something to help you inspire others to travel in good ways.