SAFED for Aggregates subsidy to continue

THE Department for Transport (DfT) has announced that it is to maintain the SAFED for Aggregates subsidy available to businesses in England at the 2008/09 levels until the end of September 2009.

The move will ensure more eligible operators are able to gain from the benefits that SAFED for Aggregates driver training can deliver, despite the harsh economic challenges currently affecting the aggregates sector.

‘SAFED for Aggregates training has continued to deliver excellent results, both from a safety and fuel-saving perspective,’ commented Dan Rapson, SAFED for Aggregates programme manager.

‘Economic conditions have meant that businesses are looking to cut their costs wherever possible. This move from the DfT demonstrates a commitment from the Government to support businesses in these unprecedented times.

‘The fact that SAFED for Aggregates can achieve a return on investment in two months on fuel savings alone, and begin paying for itself from the day of training, is sure to make it a priority in many Driver CPC plans,’ said Mr Rapson.

The SAFED for Aggregates course can either be delivered by an in-house SAFED trainer or through a network of experienced commercial training providers.

The one-day course involves a mix of classroom and on-the-road tuition, and shows drivers that with improved driving techniques, such as better use of gears and brakes and improved planning, both fuel efficiency and road safety can be significantly improved.

Subsidised places are limited and will be given on a first come first served basis until the funding has been exhausted. DfT support is planned to end in March 2010, at which time the training is expected to be taken up on a fully commercial basis.

Training providers, fleet operators and individuals interested in the SAFED for Aggregates programme should visit the SAFED website for further information or contact the SAFED helpline on tel: (0870) 190 8440.