Free e-scooter rental offered to NHS workers as fuel shortage continues

By Joe Talora, Local Democracy Reporter

NHS workers in London are being offered free e-scooter rentals as the fuel crisis continues to cause problems in the capital.

Dott, one of three operators working with TfL on the e-scooter rental trial, is offering unlimited free journeys to healthcare workers who may be experiencing difficulties getting to work due to the queues at petrol stations.

The offer will last until October 10, while all other passengers are entitled to two free journeys in that time.

Though Transport Secretary Grant Shapps today said that the Government is starting to see a “stabilisation” of the country’s fuel supply, queues at forecourts are still causing significant delays on London’s roads.

The situation has led to concerns that health services would be impacted as people struggle to get around the capital.

Despite controversy around their use, e-scooters are seen as key to efforts to reduce car use in London and encourage more active, environmentally friendly travel.

Having begun in June, TfL’s trial of e-scooter rentals has seen more than 165,000 journeys made in that time.

Ten boroughs are participating in the scheme, including Lambeth, Southwark, Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea.

NHS workers can apply for unlimited free journeys with Dott by contacting them and supplying proof of eligibility.