Alex Veitch, deputy director – Public Policy at Logistics UK, commented: “With more than half of decision makers reporting that apprenticeships and work-based learning will be vital for the future of their organisation – according to Logistics UK’s 2021 Skills and Employment Report – maximising the opportunities afforded by apprenticeship schemes will be essential in overcoming the skills shortage faced in the logistics industry.”
Perfect time to take advantage
“The Government recognises the value of these schemes and has shown a commitment to growing the opportunities for apprenticeships in the industry,” Alex continues. “In 2021 it increased the available funding to £7,000 for a Category C + E licence HGV Driver apprenticeship and created a new “Urban Driver” Apprenticeship for Cat C only with funding of £5,000. With these and many other apprenticeships in place, it is the perfect time for logistics companies to take advantage of these opportunities.
“Now, Logistics UK is urging the Department for Education to expand the terms of its National Skills Fund (NSF) – an initiative to help adults train into new careers – to include level 2 qualifications so British workers can access this funding to train as HGV drivers, and other vital roles the logistics industry desperately needs to fill.”
Developing future talent
Minister Trudy Harrison, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, said: “Apprenticeships can open doors to fantastic and rewarding careers in logistics.
“They bring forward new talent to help build and maintain our resilient supply chains – keeping stock moving and supermarket shelves full.”
More information on Logistics UK’s work on skills, and information on how to use apprenticeships in the logistics sector can be found here with more information about recruiting and funding an apprenticeship here.