RHA Skills launches nationwide funded training to tackle logistics sector shortages
In the increasingly vital—and frequently strained—fields of road haulage and coach operations, the urgency for accessible and impactful training has reached unprecedented levels. Recognising this pressing need, the Road Haulage Association (RHA), in collaboration with TRS Training, has launched RHA Skills, a groundbreaking initiative offering funded training and career development resources across the UK.
A Comprehensive Support System
At the heart of RHA Skills is a pioneering Information, Advice, and Guidance (IAG) service, marking a significant advancement in the sector’s approach to professional development. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to simplify the complexities of training opportunities and government-funded programmes for both businesses and individuals. Whether it's an operator keen to enhance driver skills, a warehouse manager seeking to train supervisors, or a logistics SME aspiring to expand, the RHA Skills team offers free, impartial advice tailored to specific needs.
This comprehensive service assists in identifying appropriate training pathways according to staff roles and organisational requirements while also exploring available funding avenues, including apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and training in sustainability. As stated in the launch announcement, “You tell us what skills you need—we help you access them, without cost.” This ethos aims to break down barriers that often hinder participation in the sector’s training programmes, ensuring that everyone from Inverness to Ipswich is served.
Timely Response to Industry Challenges
The introduction of RHA Skills comes as a direct response to significant challenges facing the industry, such as unfilled vacancies and skills shortages that have been exacerbated by rising operational costs. As firms struggle to meet training budgets, there is an acute need for flexible and affordable solutions. Additionally, barriers to entry for young people and underrepresented groups in the workforce necessitate initiatives like RHA Skills, which are explicitly designed to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunity.
This programme is accessible not just to RHA members; it is open to anyone within the logistics industry. The commitment to fostering a diverse workforce underscores the initiative’s broader mission to address systemic issues that have long plagued the sector.
A National Network of Opportunities
RHA Skills connects participants with a national network of approved training providers. Offering specialist courses ranging from LGV driver apprenticeships to Transport Manager CPC training and modular eLearning, this initiative fosters a culture of continuous professional development. The courses meet the latest industry standards, which are essential for maintaining compliance and operational efficiency in an environment that demands high levels of professionalism.
Moreover, the collaboration with TRS Training and other sector leaders highlights a shared drive to fill the existing competencies gaps within the logistics workforce. For instance, TRS is developing programs like the "Transport Manager & Sustainability Champion" course, aimed at equipping leaders with the skills to navigate necessary sustainability requirements—an area increasingly critical in today’s regulatory landscape.
No-Cost, High-Impact Training
The services provided by RHA Skills come at no cost, reinforcing the initiative’s commitment to supporting the workforce without imposing financial burdens. Simplified access to essential training can boost employee loyalty, aid in compliance, and address skills shortages sustainably. Furthermore, the emphasis on upskilling does not merely address immediate operational needs; it aims to create a committed workforce poised for long-term success.
In line with this initiative, the RHA has recently advocated for a T-Level qualification in Logistics, reforms to the Apprenticeship Levy, and increased funding for heavy vehicle technician training. These actions underline a strategic vision for a more resilient industry, capable of meeting evolving demands amid changing economic landscapes.
A Call to Action
As the logistics sector navigates the complexities of recovery and growth, initiatives like RHA Skills stand out as vital lifelines, offering businesses new pathways to success. Interested parties are encouraged to book their free skills audit by contacting RHA Skills directly.
With a unified approach to skills training and workforce development, the future of logistics holds promise. Together, the industry can propel itself into a new era of excellence driven by access, equity, and opportunity.