Response to HGV Apprenticeship Funding uplift

Responding to the increases in funding for Heavy and Lights Goods Vehicles announced by the Rt Hon Robert Halfon MP, Minister of State (Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education), Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI said:

“First and foremost, it’s great news that the Department for Education has responded to pressure from across the logistics industry to improve funding for apprenticeships. This is critical to the sustainability and growth of the UK economy. However, we have to be realistic about the current skills gap and recognise that the sector not only needs to build a pipeline of talent for the future, but the immediate needs must be addressed too.  

“That is why the IMI will continue to argue the case with the Migration Advisory Committee for the inclusion of Heavy Vehicle Technicians on the Shortage Occupation List. 

“The combined impact of the apprenticeship funding increase and the amendment to the Shortage Occupation List makes the most sense. It is crucial that the UK creates an environment that attracts and retains skilled professionals in heavy vehicle maintenance and repair. This can only be achieved by ensuring that adequate support, training, and career development opportunities are available to encourage individuals to enter and remain in this field.”

Steve recently wrote an open letter to the Rt Hon Gillian Keegan MP, Secretary of State for Education to express the professional body’s deep concern regarding the current state of the Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair landscape. Read the letter here.