Over three quarters (76 percent) of fleet operators think that work pressures facing drivers are intensifying in the wake of the ‘cost of business’ crisis.

A similar number (75 percent) also believe the cost-of-living crisis is negatively impacting their mental health, according to a new study from Bridgestone and Webfleet – Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution.

Andrea Manenti, Vice President North Region, Bridgestone EMIA said: “If commercial vehicles are the workhorses of the UK economy, drivers are their very heartbeat.”

“Fleets are facing considerable cost pressures – from high inflation to rising interest rates – but their strategies for navigating this volatile landscape must be balanced with a supportive working environment. Positive mental wellbeing is not only intrinsic to driver safety, it is vital for strong productivity, skills retention and an organisation’s reputation as an employer of choice.”

The study, conducted among 210 commercial fleets, found that excessive business and personal finance pressures are not only taking their toll on the wellbeing of drivers. Fleet decision-makers’ have also been impacted, with three-fifths (59 per cent) considering a career change.

Almost three-quarters (74 percent) admitted they need to review their current systems and processes to alleviate workforce stress. Seventy-one per cent, meanwhile, plan to introduce new fleet tech to help mitigate rising costs and operational pressures.