Driver training firm secures multi-million-pound contract

A specialist in driver training from Shropshire has secured a multi-million-pound Government contract to provide training in the West Midlands and North West England.

Under this two-year contract, Shrewsbury-based Dulson Training will offer free HGV and ADR training for individuals or 90% subsidised training for SME employers seeking to enhance their staff’s skills.

This initiative is part of the Government’s Skills Bootcamp program, aimed at addressing the shortage of HGV drivers.

It offers a 16-week program covering everything from enrolment to starting a professional driving career with all the necessary skills and qualifications for success in the logistics industry.

Dulson Training has been involved with the Skills Bootcamp for HGV Driving since its inception, serving as a partner, and subcontractor.

The company conducts its training programs across the West Midlands, North Wales, Shropshire, Cheshire, and the wider North West region.

Steve Dulson, managing director, said: “We are delighted to be awarded one of the most prestigious contracts in our industry. We are hitting the ground running, starting to enrol learners and are already engaging with employers who have vacancies to fill or staff to upskill. This programme has a very distinct aim, and that’s to fill vacancies and help the UK driver shortage.

“Although the shortage has eased in the last 12 months, it is predicted that it will start to spike again, and within a few years or even months we will have the driver shortages that we witnessed after Covid. The programme is for anyone, employed, self-employed or unemployed, who holds a full UK driving licence, is aged 19 or over and living in England – it is a fantastic opportunity to gain your Cat C or C+E licence fully subsidised”

Emma Jones, Dulson training employer engagement & partnership coordinator, said: “I am delighted to lead and support individuals and companies on this prestigious and exciting contract, from initial enrolment through to supporting employment.

“I look forward to building on and developing our already successful network of employers, to further support our students in every possible way. Upon completion of their driver training, students will receive a full package of employment support from CV guidance, job application and interview support.”