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Reducing the risk
Page 29
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Chris Chidley, chief executive of Driver Hire, says: "Driver shortage is not a question with a single answer. It depends on where in the country, what time of year and what kind of driver is required.
In mid-August, for example, companies are desperate for drivers because its the holiday season — at times of peak demand they always need drivers. Yet come January there are as many drivers as you need. There is a view that truck drivers are ageing. Truck driving may not be as attractive as other jobs.
He continues: -Lots of companies are
trying to smooth out their holiday rota (le trying to stop a big bunch of drivers taking holiday at the same time).
"We are trying to encourage our customers to sit down and plan with us in advance," says Chidley.
"There is a noticeable decline in 7.5tonne drivers. The majority seem to go from vans straight to Class 2.
"We should be encouraging people to become truck drivers. The government must look hard at the incentives for driver training in the industry and thereby increase the number of drivers."