Wondering “is my employer part of the cycle to work scheme”? Find out how to check and what to do if they’re not.
Whether it's the rising cost of living, a renewed focus on health, or a desire to make more sustainable travel choices, more and more people are considering cycling to work. But buying a new bike or e-bike outright can be expensive, which is why many employers turn to the Cycle to Work scheme to make it more affordable.
But here’s the question that brings you here: Is my employer part of the Cycle to Work scheme?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find out if your workplace is already signed up, what to do if it’s not, and why Cyclescheme is the cycle to work solution of choice for thousands of UK employees and employers.
What is the Cycle to Work Scheme (and why do so many people use it)?
If you’re new to the scheme, here’s how it works in simple terms:
The Cycle to Work scheme is a government-backed employee benefit that allows you to get a bike and accessories through your employer, then spread the cost in monthly instalments taken from your salary before tax. This means you save money on Income Tax and National Insurance.
With Cyclescheme, for example, you can typically save up to 47% on a wide range of bikes, safety equipment, and accessories, including electric bikes, from over 2,600 retailers nationwide. It’s like getting an interest-free loan and a tax break, all in one.
Learn more about how the Cycle to Work scheme works.
Is my employer part of the Cycle to Work Scheme?
Good question, and thankfully, it’s easy to find out. Here are three quick ways to check:
Ask HR or your line manager
Most employers promote the scheme internally via the HR team, intranet, or employee benefits platform. If you’re not sure, drop them an email or ask in person.
Check your employee benefits portal
If your company has an internal benefits platform or uses a provider like BHN Extras, Cyclescheme might already be available through single sign-on.
Use the Cyclescheme employer search tool
Still unsure? Head over to this simple page and search for your employer. If they’re not registered, you can send them a pre-written email requesting that they join.
What if my employer isn’t signed up?
Don’t worry, they can be! And it’s completely free for them to join. If your workplace isn’t yet part of a scheme, you can still be the person who gets things rolling. Here’s how to nudge them in the right direction:
Highlight the financial benefits
Employers save up to 13.8% in National Insurance Contributions for every employee who uses the scheme. It’s what we call a cost-positive benefit.
Emphasise how easy it is
Registration takes just minutes, and Cyclescheme handles most of the admin, including the end-of-hire process.
Link it to wellbeing and ESG goals
Cycling supports employee wellbeing, reduces absenteeism, and helps organisations meet their CSR and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments.
Want to make it even easier? Just send them this ready-made intro email.
Why Cyclescheme is the UK’s leading provider
Cyclescheme isn’t just one of many Cycle to Work schemes. It’s the original and the largest, with over 20 years of experience helping people like you save money and ride to work with confidence.
-
Hybrid bikes
-
Road bikes
-
Mountain bikes
-
Electric bikes (e-bikes)
-
Cycling equipment, including helmets, locks, lights, bulb horns, tyre sealant, panniers, clothing, and more
There’s no technical upper limit to what you can spend, either. It’s up to your employer to decide. So if you’re after a high-end e-bike or a full commuter kit, you can often get everything you need in one go.
What if I leave my job or my bike gets stolen?
Understandably, many people ask what happens if their circumstances change. Here’s a quick overview:
If you leave your job
You’ll need to pay any remaining balance from your final net salary. After that, you’ll still get the option to take ownership of the bike through a one-off payment.
If your bike is stolen
You’ll receive 14 days of free insurance when you join. After that, it’s your responsibility to keep your bike insured. If your bike is replaced, your salary deductions can continue. If not, you’ll repay any outstanding balance from your net salary.
Do I have to ride every day to qualify?
Nope! One of the biggest misconceptions about the scheme is that you need to cycle to work every single day. The rule is simple: you should use the bike for commuting purposes at least 50% of the time. That includes:
-
To and from work
-
Between offices or meetings
-
Even part of the journey (e.g. to the station)
You can also use it for leisure, fitness, or weekend rides. No tracking required, and no judgment if you drive or take the train once in a while.
Real stories from workplaces like yours
Still wondering if Cyclescheme will work for your workplace? These organisations thought so and saw fantastic results:
-
Sellafield Ltd - Nearly 3,000 employees have taken up cycling through the scheme, with over £2m spent on bikes and accessories.
-
University of Southampton - Over 1,300 vouchers issued, with many employees living within a perfect commuting distance for cycling.
-
Abel & Cole - Employees who cycle report feeling calmer, fresher, and more productive, and lose far less time to commuting delays.
These examples show that businesses of every size and sector are reaping the benefits of a healthier, more active workforce.
Ready to take the first step? Here’s a quick recap
-
Check if your employer is already part of a scheme
Ask HR or use Cyclescheme’s signup email tool
-
If they’re not signed up
Don’t panic, as it’s free and easy. Share the benefits with your employer and send them the sign-up link. -
When your employer joins
Visit Cyclescheme.co.uk to browse retailers and submit your request. -
Start your commute with confidence
With monthly savings, flexible repayments, and bonus extras, you’ll soon wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Curious how much you could save? Use the Cycle to Work savings calculator.
You’re one email away from a smarter commute
Switching to a bike for your commute can transform more than your mornings. It’s better for your body, your mind, your wallet, and the planet. And with Cyclescheme, it’s easier than ever to get started.
So, if you’ve been asking “is my employer part of the Cycle to Work scheme?”, now you know exactly how to find out and what to do next.
One small step for you. One big ride toward a healthier, happier routine.
Visit Cyclescheme.co.uk and take the first step today
FAQs
Why can’t I find my employer when I search for them on the Cycle to Work scheme tool?
Good question! If your employer doesn’t show up, it could simply mean they’re not signed up yet. The great news? It only takes a few minutes to change that. You can send them a ready-made sign-up email and nudge them in the right direction. Easy!
What should I do if my HR team doesn’t know if we’re in the scheme?
Don’t worry, sometimes even HR needs a helping hand! Point them to Cyclescheme.co.uk, where they’ll find everything they need to check, register, or learn more. And if they need extra support, our team is always here to chat.
Can I still get a bike through Cyclescheme if my employer isn’t signed up yet?
Not immediately, but you can help make it happen. Employers need to be enrolled before employees can take part. The good news? Signing up is totally free, and most employers are happy to join once they know how easy (and tax-saving) it is.
How long does it take for an employer to get set up with the scheme?
Spoiler alert: not long at all! Signing up takes just a few minutes, and our team is on hand to support every step of the way. If your employer acts quickly, you could be browsing bikes by next week.
My workplace has a wellbeing programme – can the Cycle to Work scheme be part of it?
Absolutely! In fact, we’d say it should be. If you’re asking “is my employer part of the cycle to work scheme?” and they already care about staff wellbeing, Cyclescheme is a no-brainer. It boosts physical, mental, and financial health, all while reducing the carbon footprint. Wins all round.
Can small businesses join the Cycle to Work scheme too?
Yes! Whether you’ve got two employees or 2,000, the scheme works for everyone. In fact, Cyclescheme is extra brilliant for small businesses because it’s cost-positive, admin-light, and gives them instant access to extra staff benefits through BHN Extras.
Do I need to wait for a certain time of year to ask my employer to join?
Nope! While some companies link the scheme to salary reviews or benefits windows, there’s no rule about timing. You can ask your employer to join today, and be up and running in no time.
Can I still use the scheme if I work part-time or on a flexible contract?
You sure can, as long as you’re a PAYE employee and earn at least minimum wage after salary sacrifice deductions. If you’re unsure, a quick check with payroll will confirm if you’re eligible.
My employer offers another scheme – can I still use Cyclescheme?
That depends. Most employers stick to one Cycle to Work scheme provider, but if you’re a decision-maker or want to suggest a switch, it’s worth pointing out that Cyclescheme offers the widest choice of cycle shops, top e-bike options, and a ton of extras your team will love.
What’s the best way to convince my employer to sign up?
Simply let them know that:
-
It’s free
-
It saves them money
-
It makes employees healthier and happier
-
It’s super easy to run
Want backup? Send them this helpful sign-up email and let us do the talking.
Comments: