EMR, a global leader in sustainable materials, has donated a 12-tonne lorry to Veterans into Logistics, the not-for-profit organisation that provides HGV training, followed by employment opportunities, to place veterans into well-paid driving careers.
The vehicle was handed over to the charity on 16 January at EMR’s Salford facility, at a ceremony attended by the Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, as well as EMR’s senior leadership team.
Founded in 2020, Veterans into Logistics aims to reduce unemployment amongst the ex-military community through HGV training. The charity helps veterans complete the required training with advice, funding and mentorship available.
EMR is already a large employer of former military personnel, with more than 10% of its drivers and other key staff coming from a military background, bringing valuable skills such as discipline, teamwork, and adaptability to their roles.
The donation of the vehicle by EMR will enable Veterans into Logistics to train dozens of veterans. EMR will also become a platinum sponsor of the charity, providing employment opportunities to those who complete training.
The partnership forms part of EMR’s social value strategy, which looks at how we can provide the right support to the right people, so that our communities can combat their biggest challenges: crime, unemployment and lack of education. We’ve carefully chosen our focus areas to help the people within our communities build a better today, while educating, inspiring and equipping them for a better tomorrow.
These focus areas include helping ex-offenders and ex-military personnel find meaningful work in the next chapter of their lives, supporting local initiatives that help young people reach their potential, developing the minds and capabilities of the innovators of tomorrow through work placements, and engaging with schools to inspire younger generations and build resilience into the workforce of the future.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “EMR are a brilliant Greater Manchester company contributing to the circular economy and it is great to see them donating one of their vehicles to Veterans into Logistics.
“Veterans into Logistics do so much to help people get into good jobs, turning lives around in some instances. I’ve always supported them and they’re really powering on to the next level now with this continuing support from EMR.”
Ian Sheppard, Managing Director of EMR, said: “We’re incredibly proud to support our veterans by donating a heavy goods vehicle to Veterans into Logistics to help train and equip veterans with the skills they need for rewarding careers in HGV driving.
“Veterans continue to face significant challenges, including unemployment and homelessness, while the shortage for HGV drivers continues. The team at EMR are doing fantastic work to support the wellbeing of people in our communities.
This partnership allows us to give something back to our veterans, empowering them to build fulfilling careers and creating a lasting, positive impact.”
With the UK facing a persistent shortage of HGV drivers, veterans have proven to be dependable and dedicated employees, making them an excellent fit to help bridge the skills gap.
Logistics roles are versatile and provide a great opportunity for veterans to take the next step in their careers, especially when supported with proper training and resources.
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlight the urgency of this work, revealing a 14% increase in veteran homelessness in 2023. This underscores the critical need for initiatives that create stable career paths for those who have served.
Darren Wright, Founder of Veterans into Logistics and former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner added: "We are incredibly grateful for the donation from EMR, which will significantly enhance our ability to train and support veterans as they transition into rewarding careers in the logistics sector.
“This truck will help us provide hands-on training to veterans, offering them a pathway to stable employment and a brighter future.
"The support of EMR is vital in helping us reduce unemployment and homelessness among veterans, while also addressing the national shortage of HGV drivers. We look forward to continuing our partnership with EMR to create lasting positive change for the veteran community.”
