Aileen: Leave the Car Star

The BetterPoints EastDunbartonshire challenge allows everyone who lives, works or studies in East Dunbartonshire to earn BetterPoints for walking/ wheeling, cycling and using public transport. Download the app via the buttons or QR code at the bottom of the page to join in and start earning rewards today!

Aileen from East Dunbartonshire has turned her love of walking into a rewarding habit with the BetterPoints app. She’s saving money, discovering new places, and inspiring friends to get active too.

Here's why she is our Leave the Car Star:

“It's amazing how something as simple as walking can make such a difference."

"I retired two years ago and have two grown-up children. Since then, I’ve really grown to love being outdoors — especially after Pandemic. Walking became something I did more often, just to clear my head and stay active.

I came across the BetterPoints app on East Dunbartonshire’s Instagram and thought, “Why not?” I was already walking a lot, so the idea of earning points for something I enjoy made total sense. I joined about a year ago, and I’ve been using it ever since.

What I really like is how the app tracks my walks, I can see my routes and how far I’ve gone. Plus, I can turn those steps into savings on my shopping, which is a lovely bonus.

Since I started using the app, I’ve pushed myself a bit more each day. I try to hit 10,000 steps, and it’s definitely made me think twice before jumping in the car for short trips. I’ve even swapped some of those journeys for walking. One of the biggest benefits is how walking helps with my tinnitus — being out in nature makes walking even more enjoyable.

Sometimes it surprises me how far I’ve walked without realising, especially if I’m out with family, chatting and grabbing a coffee. Then I open the app and see I’ve done three miles! That’s such a nice feeling.

I’ve told loads of my friends about BetterPoints, some of them have even won prizes in the daily draw, which is really exciting.

It’s saved me money too by spending less on fuel and parking, and more time spent exploring new local spots. And on days I haven’t walked, I think to myself, “Just get out and earn those 20 points.” It keeps me motivated.

BetterPoints has helped me stay active, enjoy the outdoors, spend more time with family and turn all those steps into something meaningful."

Well done to Aileen, our latest Leave the Car Star and winner of 25,000 BetterPoints for sharing her story. Want to be like Aileen earning rewards for their sustainable journeys? Scan the QR code below or tap the buttons at the bottom of the page.


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Mobile phone with betterpoints app.