We are currently operating an innovative training programme which is attracting young drivers to the company’s fleet; inspiring a new generation of LGV drivers through the Driving Goods Vehicles Scheme and Warehouse to Wheels Scheme.
Since introducing the schemes in 2014 it has presented us with an opportunity to develop a new generation of drivers.
So far, the scheme has attracted 30 entrants and only 4 have left – a retention rate of around 85%. The scheme is not age restricted and applications from some older drivers have also been received.
We had already welcomed the Driver CPC as an opportunity to invest in the professionalism of our drivers but we felt that the drivers’ age profile had been neglected and the company needed to find a way to attract and retain young drivers.
We therefore decided to ‘tap in’ to the local market to within a radius of approximately 10-12 miles of Bourton-on-the-Water for potential drivers.
25+ candidates have successfully completed their apprenticeships with us, with the latest candidates now taking advantage of the opportunity to sign on to the Delivery Goods Vehicles Apprenticeship Scheme.
The apprentices are now working towards completing all of the modules required to successfully complete their apprenticeships within the 1 year and 1 day requirement. This will ultimately result in them obtaining their DGV apprenticeship qualification and the ability to drive up to a 44 tonne vehicle.
Ultimately, long term, the apprentices will have the opportunity to go on to obtain their Class 1 licence; the ability to drive an arctic vehicle.
The schemes are supported by services provided by a training company in Banbury and a local college.
Since its introduction, Hacklings has reduced its use of agency drivers by approximately 80% and with our ongoing programme of driver development, we are helping our drivers “get the most out of their truck”.