The APPG for Freight and Logistics brought together parliamentarians, industry representatives, academics and government officials on Tuesday 20 October to discuss the health and welfare of HGV drivers and those working across the road freight sector.
Chaired by Rachel Taylor MP, the session explored the physical and mental health challenges facing drivers, the impact of working conditions on their wellbeing, and opportunities for government and industry to work together to improve standards.
Attendees discussed a range of issues, including the impact of long working hours and sedentary working conditions on drivers' health, access to healthcare and medical assessments, the availability and quality of roadside welfare facilities, and the importance of improving driver safety and security.
The discussion also considered the wider implications of poor driver welfare for recruitment and retention, and the need to ensure that drivers have access to appropriate facilities and support throughout their working day.
The session forms part of the APPG's inquiry into HGV driver health and welfare, following its recent call for evidence. The evidence gathered will inform a report setting out recommendations for government and industry to be published early next year.
Organisations represented at the meeting included:
Department for Transport
Road Haulage Association
Loughborough University
NHS
Tesco
Evri
Driving Better Health
Logistics UK
Brit European
Conway Bailey
Unite
European Secure Parking Organisation
The APPG looks forward to continuing its engagement with parliamentarians, government and industry to identify practical measures to improve the health, safety and working conditions of HGV drivers across the UK.