Logistics UK and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) are urging logistics employers across the sector to pledge work experience opportunities for young people aged 14 to 16, as part of a national drive to create 200,000 additional placements across England.

The organisations are calling for employers to step forward and support the Government’s National Mission on Work Experience, following Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s call for employers to help give more young people meaningful experience of the workplace.

The scheme is currently gathering employer pledges for placements. Logistics businesses are being encouraged to act now by pledging the number of work experience opportunities they can realistically provide during this academic year.

Ben Fletcher, Logistics UK chief executive, said it was a significant opportunity to highlight the diverse and rewarding careers available across the logistics sector and demonstrate its commitment to developing opportunities for young people.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that young people understand the breadth of careers available across logistics. Work experience can help showcase the vital role our sector plays, challenge perceptions and inspire the next generation to consider a future in our sector.

“We are pleased to be working alongside the RHA to encourage businesses from across logistics to support this high-profile Government initiative. We would urge employers to make their pledges as soon as possible and help demonstrate the scale of our sector’s commitment to young people and future skills.”

The initiative is open to employers of all sizes, including those that already offer work experience and those considering it for the first time. Businesses do not need to have a fully developed programme in place before pledging, and support is available through local Careers Hubs to help employers develop meaningful experiences and connect with schools.

Richard Smith, RHA managing director, said: “This is a great opportunity for haulage, coach and van businesses to showcase opportunities for young people to build rewarding careers in road transport. Our industry offers so many different career paths for people from all walks of life; the challenge is connecting with the next generation and inspiring them to consider a future in our sector.

“It’s crucial that we attract more young people into the industry and build the foundations for a thriving future, so that’s why we’re delighted to be collaborating with Logistics UK in support of the Government’s National Mission on Work Experience.”

The National Mission on Work Experience is delivered by the Careers & Enterprise Company in partnership with No. 10 and the national network of Careers Hubs, and businesses can register their commitment via this link. Logistics UK is also encouraging members to notify the organisation once they have made a pledge, enabling the sector’s collective contribution to be monitored.