At a Glance

- Supporting new pass HGV 1 & 2 drivers to gain experience and secure long-term placements.
- Structured upskilling programmes, moving drivers from 3.5 tonne to HGV 2, and HGV 2 to CE.
- 20-30 new pass drivers supported each year, helping them progress within the industry.
- Increased driver retention through training, development, and dedicated client placement.

The Challenge

Skilled and experienced HGV drivers are in high demand but in short supply. Clients requiring a driver to cover sickness or last-minute shifts need confidence that whoever is sent has the skills, experience, and ability to complete the job safely and efficiently.

As a result, businesses often stipulate a minimum level of experience, which can limit opportunities for new pass drivers. This creates a widening gap between supply and demand, with companies offering higher pay to attract experienced drivers - a short-term solution that does not address the root issue of driver shortages.

TaskMaster recognised the need for a better, long-term solution that would not only fill vacancies but also develop new talent for the industry.

Our Approach

At TaskMaster, we actively support and develop new pass drivers, ensuring they gain experience and transition into long-term roles.

By recruiting, training, and mentoring these drivers, we ensure that businesses benefit from enthusiastic, highly engaged professionals who are eager to prove themselves. New pass drivers may lack driving hours, but they bring dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to take on diverse assignments.

Creating Opportunities for New Pass Drivers

Paige Mitchell, Driving Manager for West Yorkshire, explains:

"We always push on the fact that new pass drivers will go over and beyond, and pay a lot more attention to detail as they are still learning. The new pass drivers we get are much more flexible than the experienced drivers—they take on the type of work that experienced drivers tend to avoid, such as handball and multi-drop. They’re fresh to the industry, so they generally commit to one company, whereas more experienced drivers move around for the best pay."

To bridge the experience gap, TaskMaster has implemented a structured upskilling and recruitment strategy, including:

- Upskilling Opportunities – Investing in drivers to move from 3.5 tonne to HGV 2, and from HGV 2 to CE.
- New Pass Recruitment Initiatives – Encouraging new pass drivers to apply via targeted job adverts.
- Referral Programmes – Asking existing drivers to refer friends looking to break into the industry.
- Mentoring & Support – Providing continuous guidance to help drivers gain confidence on the road.

On average, 20-30 new pass drivers each year progress from 7.5 tonne work to HGV 2 and HGV 1 roles.

The Results

- 20-30 new pass drivers supported annually, successfully transitioning into HGV 2 & HGV 1 roles.
- Structured upskilling programmes, ensuring continued driver development.
- Higher retention rates, as new pass drivers remain in long-term placements.
- Successful career transformations, with drivers progressing into permanent employment.

Meet Tom Robinson

Tom Robinson had always wanted to become an HGV driver, but financial concerns prevented him from leaving his stable job at Domino’s to pursue training.

Recognising his potential, TaskMaster offered a unique opportunity - if Tom joined for van work, we would fund his Class 2 training after six months. To ensure he could make the transition, we guaranteed him regular work and prioritised his placement with clients.

Tom passed his HGV 2 licence on the first attempt and immediately started driving in full-time placements. A year later, he expressed an interest in further upskilling, so TaskMaster supported him in obtaining his HIAB licence. This ultimately led to Tom securing a permanent HIAB role at Rinus Roofing.

"I always wanted to get into HGV driving and make it a career, but I was stuck - I needed to keep a wage coming in to the house, so I couldn’t train. TaskMaster really supported me by keeping me in work, funding my training and licence, and after a while, I got some experience in the truck and even got my HIAB. TaskMaster really looked after me, and I couldn’t have made the change without them. I’m proud of what I achieved and grateful that TaskMaster saw the potential in me. Thank you, TaskMaster."