New HSE campaign aims to reduce the stress for HGV drivers to help with driver retention

In an effort to reduce work-related stress among HGV drivers in the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a new initiative in collaboration with the Road Haulage Association (RHA). The new campaign called, "Working Minds" has been developed to prioritise the mental well-being of HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers and their employers and aims to promote mental health awareness within the profession.

HGV drivers often face challenging circumstances, including long hours away from home, demanding delivery schedules, and with limited access to essential facilities such as toilets and showers or even just finding a HGV parking location for a compulsory rest, can contribute to heightened levels of stress levels, noted the HSE.

As a part of the campaign, HGV drivers are now being offered a discreet means of seeking support. When conditions permit and it is safe to do so, drivers can send a free and confidential text message to 'BeAMate' to access 24/7 health support and assistance. This invaluable service is made available through a partnership with "Mates in Mind," a collaborator of the Working Minds campaign.

Elizabeth Goodwill, representing the HSE's stress and mental health policy team, emphasised the critical role played by HGV drivers in keeping the country's economy in motion. She stressed the importance of employers fulfilling their legal obligations by incorporating stress and mental health risk assessments into their operations to safeguard the well-being of these essential workers.

This initiative demonstrates a significant step towards recognising and addressing the mental health challenges faced by HGV drivers in the UK, ultimately striving for a healthier and more supportive work environment within the industry.

Technology can also play a crucial role in helping to alleviate the pressure of demanding delivery schedules that so often can contribute to stress among HGV delivery drivers.

By adopting proven solutions such as advanced delivery route planning software, logistics companies can help to ensure that delivery schedules are realistic and achievable, having been calculated based on real-time traffic data and optimised routes suitable for HGVs. This strategic approach enables drivers to know that the schedule is possible without speeding, reducing stress otherwise associated with tight delivery deadlines.

Delivery route planning and route optimisation software empowers planners to provide drivers with real-time updates and alternative routes in case of unexpected accidents or traffic congestion.

As the "Working Minds" campaign seeks to promote mental health awareness among HGV drivers, embracing technology like delivery scheduling software is a practical step toward addressing the challenges they face right now. By providing them with tools and knowledge that streamline their workload and enhance their well-being with planned rest periods, the industry can take a significant stride towards ensuring a safer, more supportive, and less stressful environment for this essential profession.