Many businesses are complaining about the UK's shortage of lorry drivers causing serious supply chain problems. The coronavirus pandemic, Brexit, and tax changes have contributed to a lack of qualified drivers. The shortfall is 100,000 workers. Tom Reddy has driven lorries for over 15 years. His pay recently increased from £17.50 an hour to £24.50 - a 40% jump. ‘I've never known anything like it,’ he said. ‘But they could pay me £80,000 a year and it wouldn't be enough. I want to leave.’ While Brexit is a factor, it is the shifts, regularly sleeping in a lay-by and the rude way in which members of the public talk to him that make him no longer want to continue in the job. He also blames gender imbalance in the workplace, racism, and xenophobia. While he welcomes moves by the industry to give attention to drivers’ mental health, this isn't enough for him.
HGV driver shortages
Written by David Fletcher 02 Sep 2021Additional Info
- Pray: for the Road Haulage Association and the government to iron out the many challenges now facing the haulage industry. (Luke 6:38)
- More: www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-58394903
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