Hermes UK, the consumer delivery specialist, has launched an apprenticeship scheme designed to help address the national LGV driver shortage, whilst developing its own people. So far, forty-five employees have signed up to the 12-month scheme which will see them gain a Cat C licence and become a qualified LGV driver.

Under the Hermes scheme, every employee will be given 1 day off a week (or 20%) to support their studies. The practical driving training will take place at Hermes’ Driving Academy in Nuneaton alongside additional instruction covering a range of areas such as preparing their vehicle, loading and unloading, keeping safe, the law, communication skills, problem solving and team working. Once qualified, each participant will be offered the opportunity to have an interview for an LGV driver position within the company.

“The latest survey from the RHA estimates there is now a shortage of more than 100,000 drivers in the UK. Our LGV apprenticeship programme is designed to help alleviate this industry wide challenge by allowing any one of our non-driving based employees to gain their Class 2 LGV licence,” commented on the scheme John Walker, Transport Manager (Maidstone) at Hermes UK.

“It won’t cost them a penny and they will be given paid time off during their current job for the practical and theory studying elements. The programme gives them the extra time and training to become safe and competent drivers rather than just passing a driving test. For me it’s good to hear when a driver says, ‘I’ve got a new skill for life, as Hermes has shown me the way to a career rather than a job’,” he added.