Specialist recruitment and training provider, Bluestones Staffing NI has launched a programme to provide training to people wanting to launch a successful career in logistics and distribution and help combat the current LGV driver shortage in Northern Ireland.
Bluestones Staffing NI has partnered with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Henderson Group Training Academy to bring a fully funded training programme to the Antrim and Newtownabbey area, giving individuals seeking an exciting career in logistics the opportunity to train and work as LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) drivers.
The programme, which is funded by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, is an end to end employer-led training solution designed to address the industry shortage of LGV drivers whilst increasing employment opportunities within Antrim and Newtownabbey.
Successful applicants to the programme will take part in exciting driver training, learning all the practical and theoretical skills necessary to start a rewarding career in logistics. The training, which can cost up to £1200 a driver, will provide trainees with a full LGV Licence, Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC), a CILT (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport) Level 2 Introduction to Warehousing qualification and guaranteed work with one of Bluestones Staffing’s employment partners.
Bluestones Staffing NI Director, Kieran Allmark, said, “A career in the logistics and distribution sector can be incredibly rewarding but for some, it is unattainable due to high training costs. By working with local partners, we’re giving individuals the opportunity to gain these qualifications for free and get a foot straight in the door with guaranteed work.”
“Along with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Henderson Group Training Academy, we are aware of the economic needs in Northern Ireland, so this programme is perfect to address the driver shortage and help people gain necessary training and employment.”
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Michael commented, “I am delighted the Council is working in partnership with Bluestones Staffing NI and Henderson Group Training Academy to provide this much-needed training, free of charge. This is a great opportunity to address the shortage of LGV drivers in the industry as well as helping those who are unemployed in our Borough, to get back to work. I would encourage anyone who has a career interest in the logistics and distribution sector, to register their interest now.”
Applicants to the programme must meet the following criteria: applicants must be over 21 and must hold a full car (class B driving licence) with less than 6 points and no previous driving disqualifications Applicants must also be resident in an Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Ward. This can be checked by postcode at https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council.