And according to the Road Haulage Association, it will take an average of 18 months to train them – if enough applicants come forward.
In response, one of the country’s leading recycling and waste management companies launched an internal recruitment campaign to address the shortage of qualified LCV drivers.
Sweepsman Tom Dawson answered the call for FCC Environmental Services to keep moving through central Bedfordshire.
He said: “It’s a very good decision. What I enjoy the most is being my own boss, deciding when to take a break, for example.
And he urged others to follow his example: “If you have driving experience, go for it. There will always be roles for pilots.
The company’s core services include business waste and municipal services, recycling, green energy and waste processing.
He recognizes that LCV drivers are essential to supporting what they do across the country. Working with Central Bedfordshire Council, it has launched a concerted recruitment campaign – and is delighted that so many of its own staff have answered the call.
FCC Environment spokesperson Jason Canepe said: “We embarked on this process at the height of the VLG driver crisis and I believe investing in our own employees and providing them with career opportunities is essential to address these challenges.
“It helps us to continue to provide high quality services and gives our own employees a chance to learn new skills.”
The shortage of LGV drivers – a combination of Brexit and the pandemic – is causing severe disruption to businesses across the UK.