Drivetech, part of the AA, has launched a new Van Driver Awareness course to help businesses give the right support to new van drivers, boost employee confidence and safety on the road. The driver training specialist has designed the course to support organisations and their new recruits in response to growing demand for the next generation of talent to enter the logistics sector.
Logistics makes up around 8.2% of total UK employment (Logistics UK). There is a continued rise in new talent joining the sector and getting behind the wheel of a van for the first time. In light of this, Drivetech is urging businesses to put safety first and not overlook driver training as part of the employee induction process.
The Van Driver Awareness course has been created by the experts at Drivetech to fast track the process of getting new van drivers used to the experience of driving a larger vehicle and the practical elements of the vehicles themselves. It will leave drivers more knowledgeable, better equipped to handle larger vehicles and, ultimately, safer on the roads. The course runs over two days, combining on-road and workshop training. It’s perfect for onboarding apprentices as the logistics industry looks to increase its appeal to new entrants.
The new course is part of the AA’s wider commitment to supporting new talent. The organisation offers an award-winning apprenticeships scheme, with over 135 apprentices on board. Just last year, the AA launched its first Recovery Operative Apprenticeship programme to help build a pipeline of HGV drivers for the future. As well as a partnership with the 10,000 Interns
Foundation, the AA also supports Generation Logistics, an industry led skills awareness campaign jointly managed by CILT (UK) and Logistics UK.
Nick Butler, director of Drivetech, said: “Transitioning from a car to a van requires a mindset shift, increased caution, and an adaptability to handle the unique characteristics of a larger vehicle. It’s vital that organisations don’t overlook this when it comes to onboarding new recruits and provide the training and support they need to get behind the wheel of a van safely and confidently. Drivetech’s new Van Driver Awareness course has been designed to fast track the process and give businesses and drivers the support they need. I’m proud that at the AA supporting the next generation of talent is front of mind, not only for our own organisation but across industry.”
Drivetech offers a range of training initiatives to suit all businesses, including driver audits and support with ongoing driver monitoring and assessments to manage on road work related risk.
For more information visit www.drivetech.co.uk or email [email protected]
