Brakes received the nomination for its innovative Changing Gears programme, which was introduced to provide a long-term, sustainable solution to HGV Driver shortage. Currently the programme has a 100% pass rate, with a 96% retention rate.
Debbie Spear, Changing Gears programme manager, said: “The shortage of HGV drivers isn’t new, it’s been around for many years, which is why we already had our own programmes to recruit, train and retain the best talent in the industry. However, the pandemic and Brexit accelerated the impact on the sector and we launched our new initiative, Changing Gears.
“Changing Gears is a great example of industry not waiting for the Government to deal with the shortage, but acting to create our own bespoke solutions. It’s about identifying driving talent and giving them really strong support to not only pass their HGV test, but also become great drivers.
“It allows current and new colleagues to take on driving roles, with their training and testing funded by Brakes. It’s not just about passing the test, it’s about supporting the professional development of the drivers of the future.”