RHA welcomes driver funding support proposals

The Road Haulage Association has welcomed proposals for an improved funding package for transport sector apprentices – which it says will “open up even more opportunities for smaller firms”.

From next April, government support of up to £4,500 will be available for lorry driving apprentices, with an additional £2,000 depending on the individual’s age. Meanwhile, the funding obligation on smaller firms taking on 16-to-18-year-olds has been reduced to nil.

Commenting, Road Haulage Association policy director Jack Semple said: “The government has listened to what the industry has said and has given a very positive response.

“The RHA has been arguing for quality-based funding that will drive up levels of recruitment from within the UK and quality of skills training and that is what the Department for Education has now proposed.”

Increased support for traffic office and warehouse apprenticeships have also been proposed.

Added Semple: “The RHA will be working actively to bring these opportunities alive, not only for our large and medium-sized members but for the many thousands of owner-drivers and smaller hauliers who want to introduce newcomers to the industry, often their friends and relatives, in a way that gives them a really strong foundation and transferrable skills.”