RHA: Training levels will need to be maintained and improved to future-proof sector for long-term

During 2024, we've seen a growth in qualified vocational drivers. During our National Lorry Week campaign this year, we emphasised the importance of boosting driver numbers and continuing to campaign collaboratively as an industry for more targeted skills investment. This campaigning will continue as we go into 2025 and beyond.


RHA MD Richard Smith said:

"In our forthcoming RHA Driver Demand report, which will be released early in the new year, our data will show that the number of drivers with a vocational licence and DQC (Driver Qualification Card) is its highest in a decade.

"A combination of the right investment in funded training and continued media coverage of the importance of the HGV driver role, means that more people are choosing to train and become an HGV driver across the country.

"However, our data will also clearly highlight that an ageing workforce is an issue that will become more prevalent in the years ahead, and current training levels will need to be maintained and improved upon if we want to future-proof our industry and the supply-chain for the longer-term."

Richard added:

"Having a new pipeline of drivers ready will be vital to keeping the economy moving long into the future and It’s crucial that our industry retains the new drivers trained via bootcamps: Improving driver welfare and safe and secure facilities are important to that and that's an area we remain focused on.

"We've long campaigned for better parking, as seen in our recent work with the Task and Finish Group. Continued investment in both facilities and skills will again be key priorities in 2025 to equip our sector for many years to come. Road freight and logistics keep the UK economy moving and Government engagement with our industry will remain key to securing the long-term future of our sector and the supply-chain."

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Notes:

-The 2025 RHA Driver Demand report will be released in January.