Training bootcamps have been launched to tackle the national lorry driver shortage.

The LGV Skills Bootcamps were recently launched as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee and are being supported by SP Training, a Cumbrian training company.

Ben Robinson, LGV driver at North West Recycling based in Rockcliffe utilised the refresher element of the Skills Bootcamp Programme to achieve his C+E Licence, meaning he is now able to drive an artic wagon in addition to the 26-ton rigid wagon he normally drives.

Given that Ben already had some of the base knowledge, the refresher took as little as six days.

Tony Higgins, managing director at SP Training said: “We are thrilled to be assisting the Government with the roll-out of LGV Skills Bootcamps across the UK, and are even more pleased to be the first logistic training provider in the UK to see success on the programme.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the Government to help combat the driver shortage and encourage and candidates or employers interested in participating in the programme to get in touch by emailing bootcamps@sptraininguk.com."

Following a successful application to one of these training sessions, applicants will be provided with all of the relevant skills, knowledge, and information about how to train to gain their licence to become an LGV driver and what the career route entails.

In the application process, it is required to complete an online job application form, pass a medical, apply for a provisional licence, train for and successfully complete driver theory tests.

Following this is practical training, where applicants will be supported by driving instructors to learn the skills to pass either a rigid (one-week) or artic (two-week) practical test.

There will be learner support via a learning advisor throughout, and then a job interview with an employer – which is guaranteed.

To be eligible, applicants must be aged 19 or over and have the right to work in the UK.

They can be employed, self-employed or unemployed and seeking for work, and must hold a full UK driving licence.

For more information visit https://www.sptraininguk.com/bootcamps/