Seetec and Hermes partnership tackles driver shortages

Seetec and Hermes partnership tackles driver shortages

Employment and skills specialist Seetec has launched a new partnership with leading consumer delivery company Hermes UK to help address the UK driver shortage.

The “Road to Logistics” initiative will allow unemployed and young workers to gain valuable skills and the opportunity of full-time employment in the logistics sector, while ensuring Hermes develops its own talent pipeline. 

Funded through the company’s Apprenticeship Levy, the scheme will see Hermes recruiting LGV Apprentices who currently have no driving experience, supporting them to achieve their Cat C and Cat C&E Licence.

The scheme is open to applicants of any age over 18, with the Level 2 apprenticeship taking 14 months. Successful participants will then be offered roles as employed Hub Drivers within Hermes’ hubs at Warrington and Rugby.

Seetec has developed a bespoke training programme for Hermes which includes both theory and practical sessions and the first apprentices have been recruited.

Lauren Webb, Seetec’s Head of Employer Solutions & Strategic Partnerships, explained: “We have developed a unique programme which is aligned with Hermes’ business goals and training objectives. We see the apprentices every week and will ensure they gain an understanding of the company’s ethics and core values.

“We have supported Hermes with candidate screening, assessment centre and induction programme.”

Jenny Haynes, Hermes’ Learning and Development Business Partner, said: “Seetec have worked with Hermes collaboratively to create an LGV Apprenticeship programme to suit our business needs.

“They have been flexible in their approach working with us to understand the challenges our business faces but have also been able to advise us on the best solutions.

“We have now piloted this programme successfully within our Hubs where we have recruited 14 new Apprentice Hub Drivers in April and now are launching this across our Depots, revamping our old Warehouse to Wheels programme with 17 existing Warehouse and Van drivers, all keen to train as a Cat C Driver due to start in May across our East and West Depots.”

Seetec is working with logistics employers across the UK, helping them to develop a pipeline of LGV drivers to tackle the problems of an ageing workforce, exacerbated by the possible impact of Brexit on European drivers working in the UK.