Through the scheme, which is provided by SGFleet, staff can take up a fully maintained and insured car, and make savings through tax and national insurance (NI) efficiencies.
The scheme enables the university to compare CO2 emissions of employees’ new cars to the cars they are replacing. CO2 emissions for cars available through the scheme have been capped at 120g/km as part of the university’s carbon reduction strategy, Sustainable travel steering group.
Monica Guise, post, portering, transport and interim sustainable travel manager at the University of Birmingham, says: “We’re really pleased with how it has gone. About 37% of employees drive to work and it’s been fantastic to see how great this scheme is for them.
“We compiled an action plan including workshops, case studies, posters, e-banners and emails, because the success of a scheme is reliant on a strong marketing campaign. We have also committed to revisit this throughout the year.”
The university has also communicated the scheme to staff using email, posters and TV displays around campus and on the university’s intranet, as well as a series of presentations. It will also be holding a number of roadshows over the coming months at its various colleges and around campus in the next few months.
Guise adds: “The scheme will enhance the university’s environmental ethos and provide an attractive financial benefit offer for all employees either working for the university currently or those considering working for the university.
“However, looking at other universities that have implemented a car salary sacrifice scheme, initial take up has been slow but promising. We therefore desired to put in place a compelling offer for staff that will potentially attract high engagement.”
