More young people will be able to train as long-distance bus and coach drivers thanks to a new government initiative.
A new government consultation, launching today (November 6), aims to increase job opportunities for school and college leavers, while tackling youth unemployment.
Currently, 18 and 19-year-olds are limited to only driving 50km on buses and coaches.
This has led to recruitment and retention problems in the industry as many young drivers become frustrated with the limits on their careers.
The proposed changes would allow young drivers to operate long-haul services, meaning they would no longer be restricted to local bus routes.
They would also be allowed to drive inter-city coach routes, helping the industry to grow and offer a wider variety of routes.
This follows steps taken in the rail industry, where 18 and 19-year-olds can now qualify as train drivers.
The government believes these moves could help boost jobs and encourage economic growth.
Road safety will still be a priority and the consultation will also seek views on the best ways to protect new drivers and other road users.
This could include more training, monitoring technology, or additional guidance from bus and coach operators.
Buses and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “We want to clear the roadblocks that have been preventing too many young people from getting behind the wheel of a rewarding career.
“The proposed changes will help more 18 and 19-year-olds get into the bus and coach sector, giving them the opportunity to build skills, earn a living, and develop a rewarding career, while maintaining the highest standards of road safety.”
With an ageing workforce, attracting and retaining younger workers into the industry has become increasingly important as driver shortages could worsen over time as older drivers retire.
This change would encourage younger people into the industry and make processes easier for bus operators.
The consultation follows the government’s campaign earlier this year to encourage more people to become bus drivers.
This is part of an ongoing bus reform following the Bus Services Act and a £3 billion investment in buses across the country.
