The government has announced that eighteen-year-olds will soon be allowed to drive trains, in response to concerns about the aging workforce of train drivers. Legislation is set to be introduced to lower the minimum age requirement from 20 to 18, with the change scheduled to take effect on 30 June.
This decision comes as the Department for Transport (DfT) anticipates a potential shortage of train drivers, with a quarter of current drivers expected to retire by 2030. Currently, only a small percentage of drivers are under the age of 30, with a significant gender and ethnic imbalance among train drivers.
The DfT views this change as a way to create more opportunities for young people in the transport sector, aligning the UK with countries like Switzerland, Germany, and Australia where similar age restrictions apply to train driving. Lord Hendy, the rail minister, has hailed this move as a positive step for the younger generation, providing them with the chance to pursue fulfilling careers in the railway industry.
Additionally, the government hopes that this change will help secure the future of railways, ensuring that the workforce reflects the diversity and energy of the next generation. The decision has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, with Pat McFadden, the Work and Pensions secretary, emphasizing the potential for new routes into well-paid careers for young people.
Dave Calfe, the general secretary of the train drivers’ union ASLEF, believes that this decision will not only increase diversity among train drivers but also support the recruitment of a large number of drivers needed in the coming years. The government’s focus on increasing placement and apprenticeship opportunities for young people is part of a broader strategy to address unemployment and economic inactivity among the 16-24 age group in the UK.
As part of these efforts, the Department for Education has announced the availability of 13,000 new placements in construction firms working on school building projects. These firms will be required to demonstrate their commitment to providing opportunities for apprentices and T Level students, aligning with the government’s goal of creating more pathways for young people to enter skilled professions.
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