Policy Campaign Spotlight – July 2021

TACKLING THE DRIVER SKILLS SHORTAGE

Over recent months, one of Logistics UK’s key priorities has been helping industry to address the HGV driver shortage challenge and we continue to work at a fast pace with members and the government to tackle this. On 13 July, we hosted a webinar with Department for Work and Pensions and Department for Education on the skills funding initiatives available to employers from government. To support this webinar, we will also be publishing a guide which signposts members to more information about key funding options.

In addition, we have been meeting with representatives across government, working with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and featuring in the media. Our main focus is on pushing forward short and long-term practical solutions. Some examples include:

• Proposals to increase the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) driver testing capacity.
• Tackling the lack of lorry parking.
• Seeking changes to vocational training funds run by the Department for Education.
• Short-term relaxations to immigration rules to allow qualified EU drivers to work in the UK.

We have put options to government and are now working closely with government officials and members to build the case. Furthermore, the new LGV Driver Apprenticeship standard will launch on 1 August – we are promoting this opportunity to members and are keen to increase uptake.

We invite members to join our Employment Action Group where we engage on driver shortage issues, seeking input on government guidance, such as IR35 and visa easement, and other challenges. Please email Alex Veitch to join.

Published On: 14/07/2021 16:00:45

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