Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy. Supporting sustainable travel delivery

Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Supporting sustainable travel delivery Modeshift-Strategy.indd 1 30/10/2014 15:56 Contents 1. Setting ...
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Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Supporting sustainable travel delivery

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Contents 1. Setting the Scene ......................... 1.1

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Introduction ...........................

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2. Understanding the Challenge .....

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2.1

Why Sustainable Travel? ......

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3. Investment in Sustainable Travel

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3.1 3.2

A focus on schools ................ 8 Wider investment in sustainable travel .................. 10

4. Modeshift ......................................

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4.1

Introduction ...........................

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4.2 4.3

Range of current services ..... 12 What Modeshift has achieved ............................... 15

5. The future direction of Modeshift ...................................... 17 5.1 5.2 5.3

5.4

5.5 5.6

Membership expansion ........ Supporting best practice in sustainable travel .................. Supporting schools, early years centres, families and young people ........................ Supporting Higher and Further Education Establishments ..................... Supporting workplaces and communities .......................... Working with Central Government ..........................

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22 23 24

5.7

Delivering the strategy .......... 24

5.8

Delivering in Partnership ......

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Sustainable travel is vital for an efficient and coherent transport system that can support economic growth, improved health, cleaner air, safer streets and improved quality of life in our communities. 55% of all car journeys in the UK are less than 5 miles and more needs to be done to encourage the uptake of sustainable modes of travel with a focus on active modes like walking and cycling. Carbon emission reduction, improved public health and reduced congestion are all benefits of an increase in sustainable travel. In turn, sustainable travel supports economic growth and improved quality of life. Over the past decade, Modeshift has worked alongside its members and partners in England to support and enhance the field of sustainable travel with a focus on the journey to school. Since 2012, Modeshift has launched several new services for schools including the Modeshift STARS accreditation programme. With changes to funding and policy at both national and local levels, Modeshift has identified the need to change and expand based on member requirements and needs. Sustainable travel needs to be joined up at the local and national levels to achieve results and Modeshift understands the need to branch out into other areas of travel linked to workplaces and communities.

To achieve this goal, Modeshift plans to expand its membership base to attract more professionals from the field of sustainable travel, and offer more bespoke services that are specific to its members’ needs. Modeshift will continue to work in partnership with its stakeholders and national Government to support continued funding for sustainable travel whilst improving delivery and best practice sharing. This will include provision of new services and training for members and local authorities. Modeshift will continue to recognise and reward sustainable travel achievement through its national award schemes for members along with recognising schools and businesses for their commitment towards increasing levels of sustainable travel. The organisation will operate its business operations by continuing to attract volunteers to the Modeshift Management Board, securing funding bids to deliver projects and procuring value for money services.

As a leading organisation in sustainable travel, Modeshift aims to be the centre of excellence for the promotion of sustainable travel choices in education, workplace and community settings by raising standards of industry delivery. This includes establishing a standard and level of implementation for travel plans, sharing best practice on the provision of travel choices information, and recognising excellence in the delivery of sustainable travel initiatives in schools and workplaces. Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 1

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1. Setting the Scene 1.1 Introduction 1.1.1 What is Modeshift? Established in 2007, Modeshift is a not for profit membership organisation funded by the public, private and community sectors in the United Kingdom. Modeshift aims to secure increased levels of safe, active and sustainable travel in educational establishments, businesses and communities thereby engendering widespread travel behaviour change in the long term. It seeks to do this by representing its members’ needs and supporting sustainable travel practitioners through a range of new and existing services.

Ultimately Modeshift will continue to work with its members and partners in striving towards a world in which communities are free to make healthy and sustainable travel choices where active travel is seen as the norm. 1.1.2 Purpose of the strategy The purpose of this strategy is to develop a plan for how Modeshift will achieve its vision and objectives. This strategy includes activities that have been assessed by its members and partners and will enable the organisation to grow and encompass the promotion of sustainable travel choices for workplaces and communities.

Using its position as a leading organisation in sustainable travel, Modeshift aims to be the centre of excellence for the promotion of sustainable travel choices in education, workplace and community settings by raising standards of industry delivery. This includes establishing a standard and level of implementation for travel plans, sharing best practice on the provision of travel choices information, and recognising excellence in the delivery of sustainable travel initiatives in schools and workplaces.

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1.1.3 Vision Modeshift’s vision is for a society in which active and sustainable travel is the preferred mode of transportation, creating healthier spaces, healthier people and healthier communities. 1.1.4 Our objectives Our vision will be achieved through pursuance of the following objectives: • To offer services to schools, higher education establishments and workplaces to support sustainable travel delivery • To celebrate and share best practice in the promotion of sustainable travel choices • To support long term investment in sustainable travel nationally, regionally and locally • To be recognised by practitioners as the leading sustainable travel membership organisation in the UK.

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Overarching outcomes Carbon emissions Congestion Health Economy

Communities Working with families and young people Supporting LSTF

Schools Promoting and encouraging sustainable modes of travel Expand STARS - to record and recognise achievements for schools across the UK

Workplaces Transition from education to employment Workplace travel plans

Increase and widen membership to facilitate support, networking and best practice sharing for local authority sustainable travel officers utilising the website, toolkits, promotions and links with partnership organisations

Working with central government Influencing local and national policy National Sustainable Travel Awards Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 4

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2. Understanding the Challenge 2.1 Why Sustainable Travel? 55% of car journeys in the UK are less than 5 miles1 yet many of these trips could be undertaken by alternative modes such as on foot, by bike or by public transport. If Modeshift were to achieve its vision of communities being able to make healthy and sustainable travel choices freely, then the benefits to all of us would be immense. Successful implementation of widespread travel behaviour change to employ more sustainable forms of travel would address many of the major issues the UK faces today. Worrying levels of carbon emissions, the struggling economy, congested road networks, rising levels of obesity, all of these would be impacted positively by sustainable travel. The dominance of motor vehicles on our road networks creates carbon emissions and pollutants that damage the environment, contributes to climate change across the Globe and negatively impacts upon air quality. More locally, our reliance upon cars causes’ congestion, delays, parking demand problems, noise nuisance, road safety risks and a serious lack of physical activity that has resulted in a worrying increase in preventable health concerns. Modeshift believes sustainable travel is the solution.

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Sustainable travel is any form of transport that keeps damage to our environment, and therefore the future, to a minimum. Forms of sustainable travel encouraged by Modeshift include: • • • •

Walking Scooting Cycling Public transport (including schools buses and mini buses) • Car sharing • Park and stride/walk In addition to its impact on national priorities, the promotion of sustainable travel choices is of great benefit to every individual in the UK, enhancing our quality of life and reconnecting our communities. By broadening travel horizons and re-shaping the way people think about getting around, individuals benefit by saving money, improving health, experiencing less congestion, breathing better quality air, meeting more people and living in more desirable neighbourhoods.

Source DfT Improving local transport 2012

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2.1.1 Carbon emissions The Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) has set a target to reduce 80% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions by 20502 and has put into place a carbon budget. This budget will measure every tonne of greenhouse gas emitted between now and 2050. The carbon budget limits our greenhouse gas emissions to: • 3,018 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) over the first carbon budget period (2008 to 2012) • 2,782 MtCO2e over the second carbon budget period (2013 to 2017) • 2,544 MtCO2e over the third carbon budget period (2018 to 2022) • 1,950 MtCO2e over the fourth carbon budget period (2023 to 2027) In 2009, the DfT reported domestic transport accounts for 20% of the United Kingdom’s total greenhouse gas emissions3 and more than half of these are from private cars and taxis4. According to The Carbon Plan5, transport emissions are roughly the same as they were in 1990. Emissions rose before 2007 as the economy grew and transport demand increased, but have since fallen due to improvements in new car efficiency, an increased uptake of biofuels and, to a lesser extent, the recent economic downturn.

Transport has a key part to play in meeting the UK’s carbon target by 2050. Technology and the growth of new fuels will feature greatly in improving motorised transport but to achieve this target people need to switch to more sustainable modes of travel and use those modes more often. 2.1.2 The Economy Sustainable travel can also support the economy by increasing competitiveness and productivity. The Eddington study6 stated that the UK transport system should provide the right connections in the right places to support the journeys that matter to economic performance, but that delays and unreliability increased business costs, affected productivity and inhibited innovation. Growth in travel demand is densely concentrated on certain parts of the network at certain times of day. The challenge is therefore to improve the performance of the existing network, focusing on the most unreliable, congested and crowded sections in order to improve ‘predictable end-toend journey time’ for travel to work, and for domestic and international business trips and goods movements.

Source DECC DfT Factsheets UK transport greenhouse gas emissions 4 DfT Factsheets UK transport greenhouse gas emissions 5 The Carbon Plan, DECC 6 Source DfT Towards a sustainable transport system 2007 2 3

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2.1.3 Congestion Congestion costs the UK economy in excess of £11billion per annum (DfT 2011) and some sources suggest this figure could actually be as high as £30billion (Welsh Govt 2010). Modeshift recognises that congestion can be best addressed by focusing on multiple audiences in a holistic way. We want to address congestion by working with families, education establishments, communities and places of work. The 1997 National Road Traffic Forecasts (NRTF 1997) predict road traffic growth in Great Britain to 2031 for cars, vans, lorry’s, buses and coaches. The Forecasts estimate that between 1996 and 2031 road traffic will increase by 57% under the current scenario. Reduction of car use on the roads will result in benefits to other modes which include faster, more reliable and punctual bus services, as well as safer roads for pedestrians and cyclists.

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2.1.4 Healthy weight and physical inactivity Data published by Public Health England (PHE) in February 20147 confirmed that 64% of adults and a third of 10 and 11 year olds are overweight or obese. The report states that people who are overweight or obese have an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. Excess weight can also affect self-esteem and mental health. Overall health problems associated with being overweight or obese cost the NHS over £5 billion each year. Tackling growing obesity levels is about partnerships working in all areas of lifestyle. Travel behaviour change is one element that can contribute to improving the health of the nation. In the book ‘Let Me Out’ by Ann Kenrick (2009), all elements of school travel are examined, particularly obesity. Kenrick discusses the fact that in Denmark two thirds of all 15-year olds cycle to school compared to 2% in the UK (p47). In the UK the average distance to school for primary school pupils is 1.5 miles. At a steady walking pace this could represent an additional one-hour of exercise each day for those who otherwise travel by car.

PHE Reducing obesity and improving diet Feb 2014

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3. Investment in Sustainable Travel 3.1 A focus on schools

3.1.1 Travelling To School Initiative (TTSI)

According to school characteristics data in the Statistical First Release (SFR) (using January 2013 School Census), there are 24,328 schools in England with a total of approximately 8.2 million pupils (headcount) and 900k teaching staff8. Working with schools to promote and deliver sustainable travel directly affects at least 9.1million people and within the region of 15-20 million when taking into account parents/guardians, other family members and the wider school community (including local residents).

In 2004, The Department for Transport (DfT) and the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) now the Department for Education (DfE) jointly established the TTSI. The initiative was used to bring about a step change in home to school travel patterns to cut congestion and pollution, but also to allow many more pupils to take regular exercise. One of the targets of the initiative was that all schools were required to develop a School Travel Plan (STP) by March 2010. This target was mostly met, with 94% of all schools in England submitting an approved STP to the Government.

Until the 1980s, the predominant modes of travel to school were walking, cycling and public transport. During the 1980s and 1990s the journey to school underwent significant change. Growing car ownership coupled with lifestyle changes and increased perceived danger of the streets led to a sharp rise in pupils travelling to school by car. Between 1986 and 1996 the number of pupils travelling to school by car rose from 16% to 29%. A rise in congestion, pollution and obesity prompted the Government to make drastic change to policy and in 2003 they established the Travelling to School Initiative (TTSI).

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To support the achievement of this target, the Government provided funding to all local authorities for the purpose of appointing School Travel Advisors (STAs) to work with schools to develop and implement STPs. In addition to STAs, Regional School Travel Advisors (RSTAs) were appointed to represent the TTSI in the eight English regions. The RSTAs oversaw the objectives of the TTSI by disseminating best practice and guidance to STAs, hosting regional meetings and training events, and ensuring that the STPs that were submitted met the national standard through a quality assurance process. Modeshift was created under the umbrella of the TTSI to offer a platform for the sharing of best practice between STAs and the regions.

DfE Statistical First Release 2013

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The TTSI was just the start of the process of long term engagement with schools, families and young people. STPs and advanced models such as accreditation schemes have since succeeded the TTSI, with LA staffing seen as the crucial factor in delivery. An MSc dissertation9 published in 2009 highlighted the importance of STAs showing that a ratio of one STA per 30 schools proved to be statistically successful in increasing a shift to sustainable modes of travel. Modeshift recognises the importance of STPs and staffing if behaviour change is to occur and be sustained. Modeshift has supported STP delivery post the 2010 target, and will continue to support schools and LAs as highlighted in this strategy.

As part of this duty, local authorities are required to produce and publish their strategies online by the end of August each year. Most LAs have now adopted the name SMoTS (Sustainable Modes of Travel Strategy). The guidance on Home to School Transport for LAs was updated over the summer 2014 with input from Modeshift and partnership organisations. The legislation from the Education and Inspections Act 2006 remains unchanged and reinforces the four key elements of the duty listed above.

3.1.2 The Education and Inspections Act 2006 In 2006, the DfE placed a duty on local authorities to promote the use of sustainable travel and transport for the journey to school. There are four main elements to the duty: 1. An assessment of the travel and transport needs of children and young people 2. An audit of the sustainable travel and transport infrastructure within the authority that may be used when travelling to, from or between schools/institutions 3. A strategy to develop the sustainable travel and transport infrastructure within the authority so the transport and travel needs of children and young people are better catered for 4. The promotion of sustainable travel and transport modes on the journey to, from and between schools

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Butcher, R. School Travel Advisors 2009

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3.2 Wider investment in sustainable travel 3.2.1 Local Sustainable Transport Fund In 2010, the Government announced, as part of the Local Transport White Paper, the creation of a Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) to help build strong local economies and address the urgent challenges of climate change. It reflected the Government’s core objectives of supporting economic growth by improving the links that move goods and people, and meeting its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The LSTF represented a stage in the Government’s move away from specific grants to provide local authorities the freedom to develop targeted transport packages that address particular transport problems in their areas. The aim was to facilitate best practice in the delivery of a wide range of sustainable transport packages. The LSTF presented an opportunity for authorities to capture the benefits from previous demonstration projects and identify how those benefits can be transferred and brought to life in their own particular areas. The Department for Transport made £560 million available to the LSTF over the four year period to 2014-15. The funding comprised both revenue and capital monies which allowed local authorities to develop packages of measures that included both infrastructure projects and ‘smarter choices’ type initiatives. 3.2.2 LSTF 2015/16 Capital Funding The DfT announced £100m of capital funding for sustainable travel initiatives in 2013 that would be included within the allocation of the £6billion DfT contribution to the Local Growth Fund from 2015/16 to 2020/21. Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 10

This was a new direction for sustainable transport funding with responsibility now sitting with the Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). The LEPs were required to have a robust Strategic Economic Plan for local growth, based on a strong rationale, value for money evidence, and partnerships for delivery. In order to unlock the LSTF capital funding within the Local Growth Fund, LAs needed to work closely with their LEPs to ensure that sustainable transport proposals were given consideration in the development of the Strategic Economic Plans as the monies were not ring fenced. 3.2.3 LSTF 2015/16 Revenue Funding In December 2013, the DfT invited LAs to bid for a share of £78 million of revenue funding to further support the local economy, boost economic growth and cut carbon emissions. The revenue funding was intended to enhance the benefits of any Local Growth Fun capital projects that focused on sustainable travel. As such, LAs entered into a second competitive bidding process in order to be allocated a share of the LSTF funding, albeit this time with the support of the Local Enterprise Partnerships. 3.2.4 Beyond the LSTF In December 2013, the DfT announced that there may be further rounds of revenue funding for sustainable travel subject to the case being supported in future Comprehensive Spending Reviews. Funding beyond the LSTF is highly likely and Modeshift recognises that it has a key role to play in securing this funding and ensuring the successful delivery of future sustainable travel initiatives.

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4. Modeshift 4.1 Introduction

4.1.2 Organisation structure

4.1.1 An organisation owned and managed by its members

Modeshift is open to practitioners from local authorities and other agencies involved in the promotion and facilitation of sustainable, safe and active travel for all types of journeys.

Local authority members and partner organisations are all shareholders of Modeshift and have a say on the constitution that governs the organisation as well as the right to vote on members of the Management Board. Consultation takes place annually at the AGM and two regional meetings a year provide members with the opportunity to voice opinions, thoughts and concerns; and to cast votes where required. Modeshift’s goal is to grow the membership base and continue to improve the knowledge and experience of the organisation. Modeshift is led by a Management Board of 12 voluntary members who are transport practitioners and leaders in the field of sustainable travel. Board members participate in Modeshift because they themselves have benefited from membership of Modeshift in the past and firmly believe in the advantages that the organisation can confer on schools, businesses, the wider community, individuals operating in the field and the development of the industry itself. Road Safety Officers Sustainable Travel Officers

School Travel Advisors

SCP Coordinators

Modeshift

Indenpendent Travel Trainers

As of November 2014, the Modeshift Management Board consists of a: • Chairperson • Treasurer • Vice Chair • Administrator • Communications Officer • Higher Education Officer and • Six Regional Representatives This strategy will identify further posts that are required to fully deliver the identified actions in section five.

4.1.3 Membership fees Members vote and agree an annual fee at the AGM. Members can request copies of the accounts at the AGM. Membership fees fund all of Modeshift’s services listed in section 4.2 on an annual basis, including expenses for the Management Board. No member of the Management Board will take home a salary and/or be paid for their time whilst volunteering for Modeshift. Services can be procured by the Management Board to deliver its initiatives and programmes, and while Officers can be employed to deliver specific activities they have no position on the board.

Transport Planners

Cycle Training Coodinators Home to School Coordinators

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4.2 Range of current services 4.2.1 Summary of services to members The main benefits offered by Modeshift to its members include an extensive knowledge base of ideas and best practice sharing – improving the efficiency and effectiveness of LA officers, helping them link with other areas and understand the contribution that their outputs make to the delivery of priority outcomes for other departments. Modeshift does this by: • Supporting LA officers to do more in less time – despite no on-going national targets post 2010 on sustainable travel, there still exists a Government policy which highlights the importance of addressing sustainable travel to school and employment and the role schools and employers can play in various health, transport and environmental agendas in both the short and longer term • Development of a network of useful contacts – knowing who to contact for what • Time savings – provision of school and member newsletters, an advice service and the ability to participate in the Modeshift STARS online accreditation system will lead to improved efficiencies as a result of reduced time spent writing newsletters and travel plan documents, and reinventing the wheel in terms of scheme development and searching for information • Cost savings - best practice sharing and focused workshops mean that information about value for money and evaluated schemes are readily available to members

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• Access to resources produced nationally by other LAs and a signposting function to resources from other charities and organisations working to promote and support active and sustainable travel. This provides members an opportunity to influence national policy without having to submit formal responses • Ensuring LA officers are up to date with relevant Government policy, behaviour change research and funding opportunities available, and are ready to continue to meet central Government priorities on sustainable travel • Provision of a collective approach to developing and implementing travel choices initiatives 4.2.2 Regional support, forum and network Membership of Modeshift ensures that lines of communication remain open between local authorities, regional bodies and central Government ensuring that organisations and LAs around the country can learn from one another. Modeshift STARS acts as the vehicle for continuing school engagement, and collection and sharing of information about schemes, activities and campaigns that create school travel behaviour change. The Modeshift network is expanding to reflect the diverse role of Modeshift members who were predominantly School Travel Advisors in the early days of the organisation. The expansion of the network allows those members that are new to a particular aspect of sustainable travel to speak to other members that have made a similar transition and provides them access to case studies and best practice from around the UK.

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The regional support role fulfilled by Modeshift and offered to its members includes: • Two regional meetings, offered each year to all members, which include updates from Modeshift on any changes in national policy and relevant legislation, LA updates, workshops, networking, training, best practice and resource sharing • Year round email and phone support • Three complete school newsletters a year for all members to forward directly onto schools and three member only newsletters • LA access to the Modeshift website – which includes an online forum, document library, news, contacts and resources • Opportunities for local authorities to showcase press releases on a national level via the website and newsletter and free job advertising space for members • One national AGM Convention a year - which includes the National Sustainable Travel Awards, national and regional best practice, presentations from leaders in the field of sustainable travel, workshops, networking, training and the AGM for all members 4.2.3 Serving as a voice Modeshift works to influence local and national policy. The Management Board has attended Transport Select Committee review meetings and meets frequently with representatives from the DfT, DfE and Public Health England (PHE). Modeshift is also partner of the Department of Health Public Health Responsibility Deal. The organisation responds to Government consultation on behalf of its members as a collective voice on policy from the Health, Transport and Environmental arenas. Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 13

4.2.4 Summary of services to schools 4.2.4.1 Delivering the national Modeshift STARS scheme Modeshift STARS (Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools) is a national schools awards scheme established to recognise schools that have demonstrated excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel. The scheme originated in London where it is managed by Transport for London (TfL). The STARS scheme encourages schools right across the country to join in a major effort to increase levels of sustainable and active travel and in so doing, improve the health and well-being of children and young people. Modeshift STARS is not a new initiative for schools; it is simply a new method of planning, monitoring and reporting on activities that are delivered to increase levels of sustainable travel. It therefore compliments all other existing travel to school initiatives by acting as an umbrella scheme that rewards schools for their participation. There already exists a huge range of sustainable travel initiatives for schools to take part in and Modeshift STARS effectively allows schools to pick from a menu of those initiatives that are most suitable for their individual circumstances. It does not favour one type of initiative over another, rather it advocates delivering a package of measures that are designed to engage all sections of the school community. Modeshift STARS monitors travel to school patterns locally, regionally and nationally ensuring that all users can track progress at the click of a button; including data on modal shift, carbon reduction and improvements in physical activity levels.

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The system makes it easy for schools to plan their activities and upload evidence of actions resulting in the achievement of nationally recognised accreditation for schools across the country. The scheme is national in scope and open to all local authorities and schools. The system is organised to allow any school to gain an award regardless of size, type or location. As long as a school shows a commitment to supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel, it is eligible to work towards achieving accreditation. Modeshift STARS offers three levels of accreditation: 2014

STARS

2014

STARS

2014

STARS

Bronze Level Gold Level Silver Level Sustainable Travel Accreditation Sustainable Travel Accreditation Sustainable Travel Accreditation Modeshift STARS works to reduce car use and & Recognition for Schools & Recognition for Schools & Recognition for Schools increase the number of children walking, cycling and taking public transport on the journey to and from school. Many schools in the UK that have developed a School Travel Plan (STP) have shown a decrease in car use. However, in those schools where an accreditation scheme exists to compliment the STP, the shift away from the car to walking and cycling has been quite significant. Modeshift STARS encourages schools to develop mechanisms that have many benefits for the school and local community including: 1. Working Groups: Establishing a strong and diverse working group that all members of the school community participate in with pupils at the heart of developments 2. Consultation: Helping schools to determine exactly what their travel and transport issues are, and what their community wants, through effective consultation 3. Targets: Providing schools with the tools to set and work towards realistic targets by creating a baseline of how pupils travel with year on year comparisons 10

4. Initiatives: Encouraging schools to plan and action effective travel initiatives and explore new and innovative approaches to achieving increases in sustainable and active travel 5. Promotion: Highlighting and recommending the most effective promotional methods schools can adopt and use to encourage more sustainable and active travel 6. Curriculum: Developing and making links between sustainable travel and each school’s curriculum so that sustainability is taught through education 7. Partnerships: Suggesting important partners to work with who are most likely to help schools achieve their goals Evidence collected by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council using the Modeshift STARS system has demonstrated that between 2009 and 2013 a reduction of 1,700 car journeys per day on the school run has been recorded. The data within Modeshift STARS indicates that at least 1,000 of these journeys now use an active mode of transport (e.g. walking, cycling). Applying these extra 1,000 active journeys to the HEAT tool calculates that the total economic benefits to the East Riding of Yorkshire Council over a period of 7-years would be £1.5million. The average cost to employ one Modeshift STARS Officer at £45k per annum over a 7-year period would therefore deliver an economic cost benefit ratio of 1:4.8 for the health benefits alone. That is before the addition of carbon reduction and congestion benefits. In terms of the economic benefits of reducing school run congestion, based on average national trip distance of 2km10, and a 15p decongestion value of active travel options, each extra child walking and cycling saves £48 in congestion costs each year. Applied to the East Riding of Yorkshire case study of 1700 fewer car journeys, the result is £81,600 saved in congestion costs per year.

Based on 2010 Census data provided by Dft

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4.3 What Modeshift has achieved Since its inception in 2007, the achievements of Modeshift can be measured on an annual basis. The achievements of Modeshift in its membership year 2013/14 are summarised in figure 2.5 below. Figure 2.5. 2013/14 Modeshift membership year services and achievements. What Modeshift does / offers

Related Achievements 2013-14

Modeshift offers annual membership to all local authorities and partnership opportunities to companies and organisations with linked aims and objectives or who offer services to local authorities.

392 registered members 84 local authority members 13 partner organisation members 2 Universities as members

Modeshift is operated by a board of committed safe and Expanded the Management Board to 12 voluntary roles sustainable travel professionals who volunteer their time to ensure Modeshift meets its aim of supporting sustainable travel professionals to carry out their jobs in the most effective ways possible. Modeshift supports an up-to-date and active website that provides members with a first port of call for information about sustainable travel and an interface for communications with other professionals in the field. Weekly news digests are sent to all members.

New content management system enabling a reliable and efficient website that supports sharing of best practice between members via a knowledge centre and e-forum.

Provision of communications direct to schools

Designed and delivered three newsletters per annum for schools, as well as three newsletters per annum for our members

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Hits to the website in 2014 are approx. 700 per month up from an average 300 hits per month in 2012

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What Modeshift does / offers (continued...)

Related Achievements 2013-14

Provision of networking events for members

Delivery of two regional meetings /best practice sharing events per annum in each region

Delivery of an Annual Sustainable Travel Convention

Delivery of one Annual Convention in November 2013 with over 140 delegates and a rating of 8.5 out of 10

Bids for funding to support development/ expand the capacity of Modeshift and its ability to support those in the industry

Successfully bid for Big Lottery funding to develop and deliver the first nationwide online school travel and accreditation system – Modeshift STARS

Oversee and manage a standard for schools travel plans by Promoted and established Modeshift STARS as a national awards delivering and promoting the Modeshift STARS scheme to LAs scheme that recognises excellence in the field of sustainable travel and schools in England 24 local authorities signed up to Modeshift STARS 127 schools accredited and over 2,000 schools now enrolled to participate in Modeshift STARS Feed into national policy and guidance documents

Ensured additional guidance was provided to LAs with regards to including schools work in LSTF bids Provided consultation feedback for the DfEs Home to School Transport Guidance Supported and fed into guidance provided by NICE

Deliver an awards scheme to recognise nationwide best practice and delivery of sustainable travel

Delivery of the National Sustainable Travel Awards with 57 entrants and seven winners unveiled at a national awards event in November 2013

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5. The future direction of Modeshift Given Modeshift’s unique composition and position in the field of sustainable travel, there are opportunities to build upon the achievements to date and expand into new areas to further develop and support all areas of sustainable travel. Modeshift was created to support local authorities to deliver sustainable travel initiatives to schools. The role of many Modeshift member officers has expanded since the end of the TTSI and Modeshift needs to change to reflect its current and expanding membership base. Modeshift will therefore expand beyond working just with schools and educational establishments. The sections below define the intentions and actions that Modeshift will enact in order to grow as an organisation in terms of both membership and services. It also considers the human and financial resources that will be required to deliver these actions. Modeshift is a flexible organisation and will continue to evolve in line with the shifting social, political, legal and economic climate of the UK. Modeshift’s expansion will be managed carefully to ensure that delivery is maintained at a high level with experts leading specific work streams to ensure that the best practice and knowledge shared is of the very highest quality. Modeshift will always remember its roots and as such, will not allow its expansion to dilute the work that is currently delivered for those members and partners working specifically with schools. 5.1 Membership expansion Modeshift’s strength and position in the field of sustainable travel is owed primarily to its national coverage and the breadth of its membership base.

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Modeshift will continue to expand its membership base to include more universities and English LAs with expansion in new areas including Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the European Union (EU). Modeshift will also continue to approach and work with non-LA partner members to support LAs and the field of sustainable travel as well as other national organisations and community groups.

1. Regional Representatives will continue to target and promote membership to LAs in England. Modeshift will expand to include over 100 LAs and 750 individual members by 2018. 2. The Management Board will develop new relationships with partners and authorities in Scotland, Wales, NI and the EU to offer 15 bespoke membership opportunities to authorities, cities and organisations by 2018. 3. The Management Board will target existing and new Universities to join Modeshift as members with a target of 10 by 2018. 4. The Management Board will target and approach 25 partner organisations from the profit and not for profit sectors to join Modeshift’s membership base by 2018.

5.1.1 Finances / income from membership Modeshift will continue to rely upon membership fees to finance its services to members whilst taking into account LA funding restrictions, and the size and income of its partner members.

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Membership fees, as stated in the constitution, are agreed at the Annual General Meeting of the members. Modeshift will continue to present fee options to its members, allowing all members to vote. Based on membership targets and agreed membership fees, the Modeshift Management Board will agree a budget against all areas of delivery at its January meeting. Modeshift will also explore sponsorship and advertising opportunities where possible. It will also apply for external funding through national and local government and nongovernment streams.

5.2 Supporting best practice in sustainable travel Modeshift will continue to use its existing structure and services to connect with members and facilitate further knowledge and best practice sharing. In order to meet current and new members’ needs, the website will be expanded to allow for best practice and knowledge sharing for higher education institutions, workplaces and communities. This expansion will also be reflected in membership newsletters. 5.2.1 Including workplace and community travel Modeshift has begun to include workplace and community travel throughout all of its services. Events and online activity offered by Modeshift will now also feature content that is not solely focused on schools. More information about Modeshift’s direct services to members can be found below with details of specific services in section 5.5.

5.2.2 Regional support, forum and a network Modeshift will continue its support of members through regional meetings, an online forum and additional resources based on member feedback and requirements. Regional meetings will take place twice a year offering members a range of national and local updates and best practice sharing in all areas of sustainable travel. Modeshift will also continue to host an Annual Convention on sustainable travel focusing on all aspects of the Modeshift vision and member’s needs. Members will be offered the opportunity to share best practice at the Convention alongside key note speakers from Government departments and partner organisations. The Modeshift website will continue to offer up-to-date news feeds and weekly email digests. Members will continue to be able to communicate via the member’s forum and share resources in the knowledge bank. Modeshift will continue to produce and distribute a members’ newsletter three times a year. To ensure the newsletter is fit for purpose, Modeshift will survey members and make improvements where required. Modeshift plans for the newsletter to become an e-newsletter by the end of 2014. The annual AGM will be used to elicit member feedback and input. Their suggestions will guide the organisation’s future activities. 5. Modeshift will annually assess member’s service requirements at the AGM and deliver improvements the following membership year. 6. Modeshift will include workplace and community sustainable travel best practice sharing throughout all of its services and communication channels by autumn 2014.

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5.2.3 The National Sustainable Travel Awards Modeshift will continue to present awards annually recognising and rewarding members for effective, inspirational and innovative schemes, projects or other activities that support and encourage sustainable travel. The award categories will reflect and represent the organisation’s members and partners. Awards will be sponsored by partners and presented by them at the annual convention. 5.2.4 Skills and knowledge Skills and knowledge in sustainable travel related fields (i.e. social sciences) are essential to the success of the industry and a wide range of training sessions and opportunities are available to sustainable travel practitioners. However, there are a number of restraints that act as barriers to uptake, i.e. successful identification of effective and relevant courses, and budget restraints. Modeshift, in partnership with its members (including universities), will assess member’s needs in terms of skills and knowledge and offer, where possible, free training and resources through bespoke or ongoing events and meetings.

7. Modeshift will deliver the National Sustainable Travel Awards on an annual basis with an awards event every autumn. 8. Modeshift will assess member’s training needs annually and begin to provide training in the 15/16 membership year.

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5.2.5 Consulting members Modeshift will continue to feed into national policy and, where possible, consult with members through various communication channels. Areas where consultation will take place include: • Modeshift Strategy and development • Organisation of Modeshift (i.e. Management Board structure) • Local and national Government policy • Training and support needs • Development of services offered to schools, workplaces and communities 5.2.6 Working with our partner members Modeshift will build on its partnership base and continue to work with organisations that support sustainable travel including charities, social enterprises and the private sector. Modeshift will meet with its partners on an annual basis to agree joined up working practices and explore opportunities to deliver services and products that support sustainable travel. Where possible, Modeshift and its partner members will also explore joined up bid submissions. Partnership working will be done on an ad-hoc basis. It will also be documented and reviewed on an annual basis.

5.3 Supporting schools, early years centres, families and young people Sustainable travel initiatives delivered in schools and early years centres differ for each authority and Modeshift will seek to continue to support as well as improve the standards of sustainable travel delivery through its services to LAs, partners and schools. Page 19 30/10/2014 15:57

Engaging with young people and families through schools provides a great opportunity to educate children from a young age about the importance of active and sustainable travel and provide training where required. The opportunity to establish journeys for education as sustainable right from the outset of a child’s/ family’s educational experience is crucial. Modeshift is therefore keen to identify best practice for early year’s settings and encourage its members and partners to deliver services for children and families as early as possible. Modeshift will deliver a range of services and communications to schools emphasising a clear, concise message of how important it is to deliver the sustainable travel message to young people and their families, establishing a firm base for future health, economic and environmental benefits. This will be done through the Modeshift STARS accreditation scheme and supporting resources. 5.3.1 Modeshift STARS Modeshift STARS will continue to operate as the backbone of our school engagement. It will continue to be promoted to LAs in the UK (excluding London) as the leading holistic school travel plan (including development control/expanding schools) and accreditation programme. Modeshift plans to enrol more than 5,000 schools by 2016. LAs will continue to include local initiatives within their own version of Modeshift STARS and award the bronze level accreditation standard, supporting local authorities to maintain their own local schemes/ arrangements and add value to existing programmes. Modeshift will fulfil the role as the accrediting body for the silver and gold level standards. The target is to award accreditation to 3,000 schools by July 2018.

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LAs will continue to be provided with separate Modeshift STARS guidance for Officers and for distribution to schools. Modeshift will also advocate the appointment of STAs or STARS officers within LAs, employed directly by the LA or by Modeshift, who can work directly with schools to support achievement of accreditation and therefore modal shift. Modeshift will work with its partners and the DfT, utilising and promoting Modeshift STARS as the best way to formally recognise and reward the top sustainable travel schools in the country. Modeshift will work with its partners to investigate methods to improve modes of travel to school data collection and reporting. Modeshift STARS will be used to report on national, regional and local sustainable travel delivery including mode of travel data. Modeshift will share data with its partners and national Government departments and will aim to achieve a 7% shift away from car use by July 2018 using baseline data for schools using Modeshift STARS in July 2015. Modeshift will also continue to support the STARS Europe programme currently managed by LEPT (London European Partnership for Transport). Modeshift currently sits on the External Advisory Board for STARS Europe and will support the future direction of the project including best practice sharing and expansion to other European Union cities. Modeshift will also explore opportunities to launch Modeshift STARS outside of the EU.

STARS

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9. Modeshift will promote Modeshift STARS to LAs and as a minimum target 50 LAs and more than 5,000 schools to participate by July 2016.

12. Modeshift will offer a suite of resources on the Modeshift STARS website to all participating schools by December 2014.

10.The number of accredited Modeshift STARS schools shall be more than 500 by July 2015, 1,000 by July 2016, 2,000 by July 2017 and 3,000 by July 2018.

13. Modeshift will undertake a review of resources and delivery linked to school transition and produce a best practice report for January 2016.

11. STARS accredited schools will show an overall shift away from the car to more sustainable modes of 7% by July 2018 from July 2015 data.

5.3.2 Resources Modeshift will provide three schools focused newsletters per academic year. The newsletters will focus on Modeshift STARS and supporting initiatives and ideas to help support schools nationwide. Through work with its partners and members, Modeshift will offer free toolkits, curriculum resources, forums and guidance materials to schools to help support sustainable travel delivery. The organisation is also well placed to facilitate reviews of existing available resources and collate key effective resources. Modeshift will undertake a review of resources and initiatives targeted at school transition and provide advice to members, partners and national Government. Modeshift will investigate whether there is a need to produce campaigns to support schools in sustainable travel delivery.

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5.3.3 Evaluating the benefits Given the importance of cost benefit analysis, Modeshift will build evaluation and benefits realisation tools like HEAT into the Modeshift STARS system to quantify the impacts of recorded modal shift. Quantifiable results will be collated on local and national levels and shared with all members and partners. Modeshift will produce a briefing paper summarising the full breadth of quantifiable benefits to sustainable travel delivery in schools. This work could be developed in conjunction with a partner / partner member University, and be linked to the acquisition of European funding.

14. Modeshift will build in benefits realisation to Modeshift STARS reporting by July 2015. 15. Modeshift will produce a paper on the benefits of delivering sustainable travel programmes in schools by July 2017.

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5.4 Supporting Higher and Further Education Establishments There are at present approximately 2.5 million undergraduate and postgraduate students in Higher Education (HE) and in the UK, and approximately 500k staff11. Within Further Education establishments there are an additional 4.26 million students (DfE 2013). HE and FE institutions represent both a challenge and opportunity to LAs in terms of travel behaviour change. There are in some places, established initiatives, clubs and societies actively pushing the sustainability agenda and influencing the uptake in sustainable travel. Some knowledge sharing between universities on sustainable travel initiatives and ideas exists through established networks such as The Environment Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC) and The National Union of Students (NUS). However, there does appear to be a gap in best practice sharing linked specifically to sustainable travel. Modeshift can help support existing networks, along with HE and FE institutions nationwide by offering its membership services and developing new partnerships with the EAUC and NUS. 5.4.1 Development of best practice sharing Modeshift will offer best practice sharing opportunities to HE and FE establishments through its services, including a section on the website and content at events. Modeshift will also consider the needs of HE and FE establishments when developing its travel plan systems for businesses (see section 5.5).

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5.4.2 Development of courses and training There exists a large number of sustainability related courses and modules offered to internal students at various universities and external practitioners. The link between academia and professional practice in sustainable travel can be enhanced. Modeshift has begun to engage with the University of Hertfordshire to support and develop module and course content; with discounted rates offered to Modeshift members. Modeshift will work with universities to further develop sustainable travel content in courses and modules, and provide best practice where possible.

16. Modeshift will work with the University of Hertfordshire to support and develop module and course content by December 2016

5.4.3 Research and evaluation Research and evaluation of sustainable travel delivery and initiatives is vital when assessing impact, benefits realisation and areas for improvement. Modeshift works with the University of Salford and Dr Adrian Davis of Bristol University to publicise research6findings to its members. Plans to grow Modeshift membership with HE establishments and approach more experts in the field of sustainable travel, enable us to access and publish more relevant research findings to our members.

Higher Education Statistics Agency 2013

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Practitioners delivering sustainable travel at local authority and partner level also invest in research and evaluation of sustainable travel. Modeshift will encourage all members to share findings of projects and initiatives at a local level through its website. Where gaps in knowledge and understanding of sustainable travel exist, Modeshift will work with its partners and members to apply for funding bids to commission research and evaluation.

5.5 Supporting workplaces and communities According to the 2012 National Travel Survey, of all trips taken per person, per year (954 trips), 64% were by car as either a driver or passenger. In terms of distance travelled, car travel takes an even greater share of the overall total with 78% of total distance travelled attributed to the car. From the same survey, we know that commuters made 15% of all trips in the UK, a further 3% were for business trips, with a large number for recreation and leisure. As such, workplaces and communities present an audience where potential for influencing travel behaviour change is extremely high. 5.5.1 Promoting ‘Travel Choices’ The promotion of sustainable ‘Travel Choices’ in England is sometimes fragmented and varied due to local priorities and barriers to knowledge, experience and availability of resources. Modeshift will concentrate on developing its network provision to raise the standard and quality of initiatives that are delivered to promote sustainable travel through a collective approach with joined up thinking.

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Modeshift will support the development of toolkits for its members to provide travel choice information through the transitional stage from education to the workplace. This will roll out in a pilot via collaboration with a number of businesses within a given radius to major educational establishments. Modeshift will support the development of campaigns that deliver sustainable travel messages directly to businesses and communities encouraging the uptake of more walking, cycling and public transport use. The support will reach businesses of all sizes as well as housing developers (Residential Travel Plans). Modeshift will strive to be a centre of best practice for Personalised Journey Planning (PJP) by working closely with its members and promoting initiatives and projects that have been shown to increase sustainable travel. 5.5.2 Supporting development control Modeshift will support new and expanding places of work by offering an affordable and high standard online system based on criteria listed in PAS 500 and links to BREEAM standards. The system will support the implementation of sustainable travel initiatives beyond the production of the travel plan document. It will also be developed in partnership with local authority members to ensure it meets local and national standards. 5.5.3 Supporting workplace travel plans and data collection Modeshift will build on its development control system to include the creation of voluntary travel plans and travel to work survey data.

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The system will also allow for high standards in travel plan creation allowing Modeshift to offer accreditation for workplaces that demonstrate a commitment to promoting sustainable travel to staff and visitors. This new system will mirror the schools Modeshift STARS scheme with multiple levels of standards. The system will also be built to support data collection and reporting at both the local and national level. To further support the system, Modeshift will work closely with its members to provide best practice toolkits and resources for workplaces. Where applicable, workplaces will be directed via links to other resources and toolkits. 17. Modeshift will work with its members to develop a holistic workplace travel system to support development control, voluntary travel plans and travel to work surveys by summer 2015. 18.Modeshift will work with its members to offer a suite of best practice toolkits and resources to places of work by summer 2015. 19. Modeshift will become a centre of excellence for best practice linked to Personalised Journey Planning (PJP) by November 2016.

5.6 Working with Central Government Modeshift meets and liaises directly with Central Government including: • Department for Transport (DfT) • Department of Health (DOH) and Public Health England (PHE) • Department for Education (DfE) Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 24

Modeshift will maintain its relationship with the Government providing support, guidance, data, policy updates and opportunities for its members. Modeshift will also continue to inform its members of funding streams and opportunities from Central Government (and other sources where applicable).

5.7 Delivering the strategy To continue delivery of current initiatives and achieve the goals and actions set out in this strategy, consideration of human and financial resources available is required. 5.7.1 Human resources – Modeshift Management Board Modeshift is led by a Management Board of 12 voluntary members whom are transport practitioners and leaders in the field of sustainable travel. Current cumulative time committed by the board is approximately 204 days per annum, broken down as follows: Role

Days per month

Chair

3 days

Vice Chair

2 days

Treasurer

2 days

Administrator

2 days

Communications Officer 1 day Higher Education Officer 1 day Regional advisors (x6)

6 days

Total:

17 days

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This is sufficient to cover current activities delivered by Modeshift. To fully deliver this strategy, Modeshift will need to recruit additional voluntary posts and a paid post resource. 5.7.2 New management board posts New posts will be identified in the next four years as Modeshift expands and changes in line with the field of sustainable travel. To support this strategy the following posts have been identified and will be recruited by November 2015: • Community Travel Choices Specialist Advisor • Workplace Travel Specialist Advisor • School Travel Specialist Advisor 5.7.3 Paid post Modeshift will explore funding a part-time post to provide ongoing administrative and management support to Modeshift and its members whilst undertaking a range of projects and tasks outlined in the Modeshift Strategy. In 2015, the post will be part funded by revenue from Modeshift membership and Modeshift STARS fees. In 2016 and beyond, Modeshift will explore external funding streams to secure the sustainability of the post. 5.7.4 Commissioning of services Modeshift commissions a variety of services including: • Website hosting, design and maintenance • Awards and other types of print production • Design work, photography and artwork • Online systems • Staff resourcing • Training and events Modeshift 2018: Sustainable Travel Strategy Modeshift-Strategy.indd 25

Modeshift will commission these and other services outlined in the strategy to its partners before considering outside agencies. Where two or more partners are able to deliver a service, Modeshift will complete a tender competition and assess all bids. Where outside agencies are considered to deliver services on Modeshift‘s behalf, they will be selected based on value for money and the ability to deliver to a high standard.

5.8 Delivering in Partnership Modeshift recognises the importance of and strengths associated with working in partnership with organisations whose aims and ethos are convergent. Modeshift has identified a list of other organisations that can support the Modeshift Strategy and the sustainable travel industry. These include: • • • • •

Transport for London (TfL) Sustainable Schools Alliance (SSA) Eco Schools/Keep Britain Tidy Road Safety Great Britain (RSGB) PACTS (Parliamentary Advisory Council for Travel Safety) • Chartered Institute for Highways and Transportation (CIHT) • The Transport Planning Society (TPS) Modeshift will put in place documented agreements with any organisation it works with in partnership. These documents will identify Modeshift’s commitment to the partnership and will be reviewed on an annual basis.

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