Road to Logistics gets £1m Government boost

8th September 2019

The Road Haulage Association and leading telematics company Microlise are delighted that Government has pledged £1m to support Road to Logistics – a not-for-profit scheme founded by the two organisations.

“This is the culmination of three years of collaboration and hard work between the RHA and Microlise,” said RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett.

“The future of the UK road transport industry depends on its drivers and right now we’re facing a shortage of approximately 60,000. Road to Logistics will go some way to resolving this while at the same time supporting ex-offenders, the long-term unemployed and individuals from other disadvantaged backgrounds.”

Following a successful trial with HM Prison Sudbury and other prisons across the UK, Road to Logistics aims to train up to 300 drivers in the first year. The scheme will link potential drivers with employers, mentor them and put them through the necessary training including taking their HGV driving test.

“It’s fantastic that Government is supporting an initiative that will help to resolve the shortage of drivers whilst providing a helping hand for those that need it the most.”

Microlise executive director, Bob Harbey said: “We firmly believe that Road to Logistics will play a central role in addressing the sector’s skills shortfall and are extremely pleased that Government is providing the support that is so desperately needed.

“The shortage of HGV drivers is a massive threat to the economy. Without them, the wheels of the UK road transport industry will, quite literally, grind to a halt.

“The next stage is to focus on unlocking the Apprenticeship Levy for our sector.”

-ENDS-

Notes for Editors

For more information including how to get involved, go to Road to Logistics