AROUND TWO-THIRDS of the learners will train as HGV drivers, with the rest preparing to work as warehouse operatives. Employers are struggling to fill both types of role, which can raise operating costs and constrain growth.

The programme builds on a pilot in Felixstowe, where eight learners gained HGV C+E licences and moved into work. Successful participants joined organisations including XPO, The Range, Maritime Transport and the Port of Felixstowe. Since 2020, Road to Logistics has supported more than 750 unemployed people, 89% of whom have progressed into employment, with 94% still in work after 12 months.

The first information day will be held at the Freeport East Harwich Innovation Hub in early October and will focus on warehouse operative careers. Employers are being encouraged to take part by offering interviews or jobs, sharing vacancies or giving learners insight into their workplaces.

Steve Beel, chief executive at Freeport East, said the partnership “will connect people in Tendring with practical, industry-focused training leading to real jobs, while helping our logistics and warehousing employers to develop the workforce they need”.

Jennifer Swain, managing director at Road to Logistics, said the funding would allow it to support more than 30 local people towards employment through HGV Cat C and C+E training, as well as warehousing and forklift truck pathways.

Employers can contact Swain at [email protected].