Cycling for climate change
Posted on Tuesday 2nd November 2021
Evelina London staff cycling to Glasgow
A team of 24 staff from across Evelina London have completed a 500 mile cycle from London to Glasgow for the UN Climate Change Conference.
Cyclists from Evelina London have undertaken an eight-day journey to raise awareness of the current climate crisis and its effect on children’s health.
Yasmin Jefferies, counsellor and psychotherapist said: “I love cycling and wanted to share my passion with colleagues from other Trusts. It was great to meet so many healthcare professionals, coming together to help spread the word about climate change and its impact on children’s health. There needs to be more awareness of the urgent need for change and it was important to be there showing my support."
The cyclists aimed to inspire others to act and to establish a network of likeminded individuals who can help find solutions to build a more sustainable NHS, while highlighting the impact of the climate crisis on children and future children.
The team joined cyclists from other children’s hospitals including Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, Sheffield Children's Hospital, the Great North Children's Hospital in Newcastle, and the Royal Hospital for Children Glasgow.
Shelley Riphagen, consultant in paediatric intensive care said: “The cycle ride was one way of signalling our commitment to tackling climate change and to delivering Guy’s and St Thomas’ ambitious sustainability strategy.
“It was a great team event with a common cause. The joining of all our teams across different children's hospitals in a common voice carries a powerful message and the ability to learn new ideas from one another and implement them locally.”
The team have also been fundraising along the way for projects at Evelina London that will improve patient experience and support staff welfare.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the cycle, those who sponsored the team and those who organised their own virtual cycle.
Learn more about the sponsored cycle or donate.