In recent years the key role of the haulage industry in the UK economy has been well publicised. In the wake of the driver shortage of 2021, it’s clear that supply chains grind to a halt when driver numbers plummet. 81% of all UK freight is transported by road, so the fact that the sector is facing a significant driver shortage rings alarm bells. Clearly, the answers lie in attracting a wider demographic into driving roles – namely more young people and women. 

Forecasts indicate a need for 200,000 new HGV drivers over the next five years, with 40,000 new recruits required annually to meet supply chain demands. At the same time the industry remains overwhelmingly male and more mature, with only 2% female drivers and just 1.6% under the age of 24. So, what are the challenges young people and women face when considering careers as HGV drivers? And most importantly, what factors will make the industry more inclusive, encouraging these demographics to engage in HGV training? 

Challenges for new HGV drivers

Lower numbers of new talent entering the HGV workforce is creating a growing demographic imbalance. The majority of current drivers are aged 50-59, which will become problematic when this group begins to reach retirement age. The peak driver shortage witnessed in 2021, which caused empty shelves and severe supply chain disruptions, is a stark reminder of what’s at stake. If the industry fails to adapt, similar challenges could resurface as early as 2026.

Young drivers

The haulage industry has traditionally struggled to appeal to young job seekers. Common barriers that we’ve identified at Easy as HGV include:

  • Some stigma surrounding HGV driving as a result of lack of representation in college careers programmes, resulting in perceptions that it’s labour-intensive, mundane, or lacks career progression. 
  • Initial costs and especially insurance premiums, deterring those who can’t afford up-front investment and are not aware of grants or subsidy programmes. 
  • The misconception that drivers spend weeks away from their families and work predominantly unsociable hours. 

Female drivers

Although female drivers bring proven strengths to the role, including safer driving records and fewer traffic violations, the industry is still seen as male dominated. So why is this?

  • Poor facilities at rest stops, including a lack of clean and secure washrooms. A significant government backed programme of rest stop improvement is going some way to helping here. 
  • Safety concerns stemming from parking overnight or handling difficult cargo environments. Improvements to overnight rest security is beginning to make a difference.
  • Fears of workplace discrimination, which can dissuade women from pursuing careers in driving. This requires a cultural shift across the sector.
  • The perception that HGV driving doesn’t complement family life or childcare responsibilities.

Attracting young people and women to the haulage industry

To address the challenges above, the industry must not only attract a broader demographic but also create an environment where young people and women feel supported and valued.

Improve working conditions

We’ve already mentioned the significant programme of Government backed improvements to truck rest stops across the UK. This should not mean that the industry rests on its laurels, as rest stop conditions should not be a postcode lottery. Rest stops with clean, secure washrooms, healthy food options, and proper parking facilities can improve the quality of daily life for HGV drivers. Guaranteeing new HGV drivers feel safe while on the road should also be a top priority.

Flexibility and balance

Offering flexible working hours, such as shorter hauls or rotational routes, allows drivers to plan their careers around personal commitments. There needs to be industry wide communication here. For example, highlighting examples of drivers who balance their roles with family life effectively. This can debunk misconceptions about the job’s lifestyle requirements.

Financial and insurance support

The investment in training and the expense of insurance premiums for young drivers often deter newcomers. However, there are grants available, and the investment isn’t as daunting as many people might expect. People who are interested in HGV driving as a career should have opportunities to discuss their options with experts who can give pragmatic advice without pressure to commit. That’s what we do at Easy as HGV. Our advisors are on hand online or by phone to help to steer new learners onto the right path. 

Accessible and inclusive training

As we strive to continually evolve at Easy as HGV, training centres must become more inclusive across the board. This means offering tailored learning solutions, including mentorship programmes for new HGV drivers, female-led training groups, and resources for individuals with disabilities or those with English as a second language. By providing comprehensive support, offering everything from practical driver training to recruitment guidance, it’s all a little less scary.

Campaigns and initiatives

Changing misconceptions about the industry involves active promotion, particularly among school leavers. Outreach programmes, partnerships with schools, and social media campaigns that spotlight successful young or female HGV drivers can highlight logistics as a viable and fulfilling career path.

Mentorship programmes

Mentorship and support networks are key to recruitment and retention. Programmes that connect new female recruits with experienced female HGV drivers provide a sense of belonging and reinforce that gender barriers can and are being broken.

What can your Training Provider do?

One way to significantly reduce the barriers to entry is by choosing the right HGV training provider. Organisations like Easy as HGV don’t just train new HGV drivers; we actively support them throughout their career journeys. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us: 

  • Comprehensive support: Easy as HGV handles everything from training logistics to arranging theory and practical tests. This removes much of the stress associated with starting a new career. 
  • Fast track to qualification: With fast-track C+E licence courses which allow trainees to qualify quickly, we help new HGV drivers secure jobs and begin earning faster. 
  • Career guidance: The journey doesn’t end at passing – you’ll get expert CV writing advice as well as access to a network of recruitment partners that specialise in positions for newly qualified drivers. 
  • Inclusive training: With over 90 training centres nationwide, Easy as HGV ensures accessibility and fosters an inclusive training environment. 
  • Job security: The many who pass with us at Easy as HGV often transition directly into employment, thanks to our high pass rates, pass protection, and connections with trusted haulage companies. 

The future of the haulage industry depends on attracting and retaining a diverse workforce. By addressing structural barriers, improving training access, and advocating for inclusivity, the industry can close the growing driver gap. Things are changing, and if you want to be at the face of that change, get in touch to find out more.