Ahmadiyya Muslims rally to help tackle HGV driver shortage

Recruitment Drive for HGV Pilot Scheme Gets into Gear

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK is stepping up to support the nation in response to national the shortage of HGV drivers. A new pilot scheme is being launched to attract new recruits and more than 500 people have already signed up to attend the HGV introduction day on Sunday 17 October.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, one of Britain’s oldest established Muslim communities, has a long history of supporting the country through its charitable fundraising, extensive voluntary work in the community and by opening its mosque doors to host Covid-19 vaccination centres.

Now the community is using Britain’s biggest mosque site – the 12,000 capacity Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden, Surrey – as a recruitment ground for HGV drivers.

An introductory course has been arranged for Sunday 17 October at 2.00pm where attendees will be able to meet and talk with industry specialists, gain an insight into the HGV training programme, get guidance to complete the DVLA application forms and receive help with medical assessments with qualified medical staff on site.The opportunities are open to all.

Rafiq Hayat, National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, said:

“Our community has a proud history of philanthropy going back over a century. The point of this exercise is to respond to the national crisis, to ensure we play our part for the wellbeing of our country and contribute to its future success.

“Serving one’s country is a key part of the Islamic faith so it is our duty to do what we can to help.”

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said:

“I welcome this important initiative by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK to help more people become professional HGV drivers. With notable improvements to pay, working conditions and diversity, now is the perfect time to consider starting a career in the haulage industry.

“HGV drivers are providing a vital service across the country and we’re taking a range of steps to support them, including streamlining the process for new HGV drivers and increasing the number of driving tests.”

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK has in the past supported drives for recruitment to the Armed Forces, the police, and hosted regular careers fairs to harness talent and serve the nation.

ENDS
Head Office: Baitul Futuh Mosque, 181 London Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5PT

Contact: Media@AhmadiyyaUK.org