Does the Use of E-Scooters Bring Well-Being Outcomes for the User?: A Study Based on UK Shared E-Scooter Trials

Abstract

E-scooters are a relatively new mode of travel in the UK and their impacts on physical and mental health are uncertain. Although their use does not involve physical activity directly, through walking or cycling, they might provide other well-being benefits. Such effects will likely vary according to the user and the context. We aim to assess whether use of shared e-scooters is associated with wider well-being and mental health, arising for example from for example access to local services, exposure to the natural environment, reduced stress, and a perception of having done some exercise. Our secondary question is whether potential well-being impacts vary across population sub-groups. A total of 2,402 responses to an online survey completed during a one-month period (August to September 2021) by shared e-scooters users operated by a sole UK provider. Personal well-being from e-scooter use was assessed using questions on general levels of stress and mood (before, during or after e-scooter journeys), and features of the journey such as exposure to the natural environment and perception of air quality. All well-being questions were reported using a five-point Likert scale. Analysis indicates that people with protected characteristics and those who have personal challenges, for example with respect to personal mobility, are more likely to incur well-being benefits. The results presented are part of on-going research, with the next steps being to measure changes over time. The findings may be of interest to policymakers and the research community.