AN INNOVATIVE new moped loan scheme is helping jobless people in East Cornwall get on their bikes — literally. East Cornwall Wheels to Work provides a range of transport advice and solutions to help unemployed people access training and job opportunities. Help ranges from personalised travel plans, which include public and private transport, car sharing and cycling to a moped loan scheme for those unable to access public or private transport. Francis Griffiths, project manager for East Cornwall wheels to work, said: Transport is a real issue for jobless people in East Cornwall, particularly in rural areas where little public transport is available. In a recent survey, 42% of unemployed respondents said that they had turned down jobs due to lack of transport. The figures are even higher for 16 and 17 year olds, with 70% unable to get work because of transport problems.' The scheme currently has ten mopeds and aims to build up to a fleet of 30 over the next couple of months. Six clients have been through their compulsory basic training and have been issued with scooters and protective clothing for an initial six month period. Another 15 have been given approval to join the scheme once they have job offers. Wheels to work is open to unemployed people aged 16 and over, who live in the Caradon, North Cornwall or Restormel districts. To be eligible for scooters, they must have firm offers of training or employment and be able to show that no alternative public transport is available. Registered charity Milestones runs the scheme with funding and support by authorities and organisations including Cornwall County Council, Rural Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Partnership, Cornwall Post 16 Transport Partnership and Caradon District Council. To find out more about wheels to work and how to apply, ring 01566 776958.