DHL Supply Chain has announced the launch of Driving Ambition, a new training programme which aims to tackle the national driver shortage with a long-term solution by providing fully funded training for applicants to qualify as LGV drivers.

The Driving Ambition programme removes a key barrier to a career in logistics by providing company-funded driver training. 

One of the main aims of the programme is to encourage a wider pool of diverse candidates to consider a driving career.

Driving Ambition offers candidates free driver training worth up to £3,000 to obtain either a Category C licence (Class 2) to drive rigid trucks, or licences C and E (Class 1) to drive articulated trucks.

Ian Clough, MD Transport at DHL Supply Chain UK said: “The supply chain industry is facing a huge shortage of drivers. One of the most important steps we can take to solve this for the long-term starts at grass roots by encouraging and enabling people to pursue a career in logistics. 

“By investing in someone’s future, and offering them the opportunity to be trained and ultimately become a qualified LGV driver, we’re hoping to attract as broad an audience as possible."

Roads Minister Baroness Vere added: “This is a fantastic initiative and I fully support DHL as they encourage UK workers to kick-start a rewarding and lucrative career in our vitally important road haulage industry. 

“We will continue to do all we can to help industry leaders boost driver recruitment numbers, improve job opportunities right across the country, and address the problems caused by this global issue."