The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has teamed up with The Real Apprenticeship Company (TRAC) to offer Government funding to train up to 200 new HGV drivers to FTA members.

The freight and logistics industry estimates that there could be up to 35,000 vacancies for trained operators across the country which is having a negative impact on the industry. This will be the last tranche of Government funding available that does not require a contribution from employers.

Sally Gilson, Head of Skills Campaigning at FTA said: "This is a great opportunity for members to get free training for the drivers they are recruiting now. We are pleased to be able to offer this funding to members to help them tackle the persistent shortage of qualified HGV drivers."

Applications for funding must be made before the end of March 2017 and trainees need to be enrolled by the middle of April. It is open to people aged 23 or below that hold a Category B (car) driving licence. Funding will be allocated to qualifying employers and learners on a first-come-first-served basis.

A total fund of £1M has been secured by TRAC and, depending on the type of training programmes offered would be sufficient to fund up to 200 drivers through driving licence acquisition training.

Pierre de Carteret, Chief Operating Officer at The Real Apprenticeship Company said: "While there is currently a reduced appetite to commence training apprentices now, there is a very clear economic rationale for doing so. This is most definitely a case of use it or lose it and it's extremely unlikely government will provide another funded opportunity like this again."

Employers interested in taking up this opportunity should email FTA@thereal.company.