The UK faces a long-standing issue of HGV driver shortage. There are various reasons that has contributed to this situation. From long working hours, low pay, uncommon shifts the issues have been surmounting. Unfortunately, despite high promises of the salary, things do not look as great. However, an HGV training school in London will be useful to address this problem adequately.
Understanding the HGV Driver Shortage
The UK is in need of human truck drivers, the country is not yet fully ready for AI and driverless trucks. There are around 350,000 trucks in operation. The demand for drivers continues to rise. This is occasioned by e-commerce and home delivery services. The shortage has sometimes got worse to an alarming point.
According to Gary Bernardout, founder and CEO of HVGT, “The driver shortage is a growing issue. Our HGV training school in London has become an essential source for preparing drivers for this need.”
Factors Behind the Shortage
The shortage worsened after COVID-19. Many driving tests were postponed during the pandemic. The DVSA couldn’t conduct 50,000 tests. And most drivers decided to leave early. As far as employment is concerned, this left fewer experienced human professional experts.
Bernardout adds, “The pandemic made the shortage worse.” An HGV training school in London can help fill the gap by training the next generation of drivers.
Brexit also played a role, when the United Kingdom left the European Union. There are so many EU drivers who went back home. They either retired or pursued other means of livelihood. This only worsened the already bad situation of the shortage.
According to Bernardout, “Brexit played a pivotal role in reducing available drivers. By partnering with our HGV training school in London, the industry can be able to attract new talent who can undertake these positions.”
Impacts of the Shortage
At one point, the shortage reached 100,000 drivers. This created significant supply chain disruptions. This caused major problems for supply chain managers. Shops were bare, and gas stocks dwindled. The media widely reported on the issue. This led to many operational problems in various branches of the economy.
“Without enough drivers, the whole supply chain struggles,” says Bernardout. He further adds, “London needs an HGV training school; it will help to solve the problem by training qualified drivers.”
This shortage has been a key challenge for years. But recent efforts have somehow narrowed this gap. Today, the shortage is estimated at 35,000 to 40,000 drivers. Though not as severe as the former it still creates issues.
Bernardout believes, “The shortage is still far from over. An HGV training school in London continues to be a critical part of the solution.”
How HGVC Training Can Help
HGVC training offers a solution. To all new drivers, it helps provide them with what they require. As it offers placement and certification training, it contributes to recruitment.
“We’re training the next generation of drivers,” says Bernardout.
Training also attracts new drivers to the field. It enables people to attain a fulfilling employment status.
HGV driving can offer great opportunities,” says Bernardout. He addressed the aspiring drivers, “Many people turn to this career after being trained. The training programs ensure they’re job-ready. Turn to an HGV training school in London to get the advice and knowledge you need to succeed.”
In fulfilling industry needs, HGVC directly addresses the issue by providing tailored programs. “We’ve seen a steady increase in applicants,” says Bernardout. Training programs are designed to be accessible. They make it easier for people to become drivers. Bernardout continues, “Our training is crucial for addressing the shortage.” An HGV training school in London is integral to these efforts.
The long-term solution to the shortage involves more training. The growth of the industry requires a constant supply of experienced drivers. Expanding training programs will also offer job security for future drivers. An HGV training school in London offers the structure and support necessary for sustained growth.
By increasing training capacity, the UK can meet demand. This will allow the economy to thrive without disruption. Bernardout concludes, “Our goal is to bridge the gap.” An HGV training school in London is an important player in ensuring this gap is closed effectively.