IAM RoadSmart urges businesses to fund driver training via Apprenticeship Levy

IAM RoadSmart is encouraging businesses to make sure driver training is a part of apprenticeship development.

It has written to the Government asking it to make it clearer that driver training can be funded via the levy.

Employers of all sizes can apply for a cash boost (of up to £2,000 per apprentice under 25) to help them take on new apprentices and get more people into work.

There are a wide range of driver training courses available to many UK companies – and many can be tailored to meet the specific vehicle specification, utilisation or driver experience.

IAM RoadSmart’s interim chief executive officer Tony Greenidge said “Providing driver training to all apprentices who will be using a vehicle in the course of their work has the potential to make a huge contribution to road safety.

“For a minimum investment formal driver training is a valuable additional skill that will enhance their working life and bolster their CV at a time when employment prospects for young people are expected to be particularly tough.

“It is well-known that young drivers are the most at risk group on our roads. Improved driving skills and a safer attitude to driving are, we believe, key benefits that will assist young people and help keep them employable in the current economic crisis.

“We welcome the promise of additional funding for each new apprentice taken on by businesses before 31 January 2021 and urge employers to make the most of this opportunity to upskill the workforce.”

Around 90% of all collisions are caused by human error and typically one in four fleet vehicles is affected each year, according to IAM Roadsmart. With costs averaging £1,700 per incident Greenidge said there are real financial and operational benefits for businesses, the Government and the general public.