This week it’s National Lorry Week, a campaign set up by the Road Haulage Association to highlight the importance of the transport industry for the UK economy.

For those of us working in haulage, we know it’s the life-blood of the country, transporting the raw materials and finished goods required to keep Britain trading, but how do we show this to the rest of the nation?

It can be difficult to get people to #LoveTheLorry and appreciate the work we do when there are negative news stories appearing in the media on a regular basis. But why is this when the goods that appear on our shelves in shops and supermarkets, that everyone in the country relies on, only get there because of the lorries that deliver them?

Changing the public’s perception hasn’t and won’t be easy. From being made accountable for the mayhem on the motorways last winter, to putting the safety of cyclists and vulnerable road users at risk, it seems whatever chaos there is on the road, transport companies are being held responsible. Lorries are even now being blamed for air pollution despite there being more cars on the road, and while town councils and the government are putting the onus on each other for the introduction of clean air zones, it’s still the haulage industry footing the bill.

Teaching the nation about the vital service we provide has become increasingly important as, without lorries, we would have no food, no clothes and no fuel and production in Britain would come to a complete halt. With an ever-increasing shortage in drivers too, these perceptions need to change in order to attract the next generation of vital workers.

Despite all of this, our industry is fast moving and with the help of this campaign, we can educate schools, colleges and local people and raise awareness of the hard work that drivers and hauliers do for our economy.

As a haulage Company, we’re dedicated to encouraging people to #LoveTheLorry by continuously changing the way we operate, from buying new Euro 6 vehicles which improve air pollution to putting policies in place to reduce engine idling and tyre and fuel consumption. We are also FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) Silver accredited which recognises the companies operating to the highest standards.

So, join us and #LoveTheLorry!

Read more about how FORS has helped us improve road safety, operational efficiency and environmental protection: ChadkirkForsMembership

Campaign information: www.rha.uk.net/events/2018-09-september/national-lorry-week