Case Study: Sheffield Newspapers, Johnston Press
News
22nd April 2009
Sheffield Newspapers, part of Johnston Press, produces over 5 million printed newspapers a week. From the Sheffield Web distribution centre, the operation delivers across South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and North Derbyshire.
“In early December, Logistics Learning World started profiling eighteen full time drivers with the Carry and Deliver Goods Level 2 NVQ,” says Transport Manager, Steve Mickleborough. “I was surprised at how quickly everything got up to speed, as we began having LLW assessors turning up at centre by the middle of January.”
“LLW came to see me and we talked over how it would all work. From agreeing to move forwards with the NVQs I’ve been very happy with the speed of delivery – I thought I was looking at a good six months, but LLW didn’t hang about and by the end of January all of our full time drivers were just about completed.”
“What has been great is the rapport between the assessors and my drivers. I can’t fault LLW one bit. Also the profiling sessions, which were not only informative but also entertaining as well. Our drivers felt relaxed, laughing and enjoying the session. A really good start to the whole process.”
“The assessors have been working one-on-one with the drivers, going out with them on deliveries and collecting everything required for the NVQ portfolios. All the feedback I’ve received from my drivers has been positive. The drivers like it as they gain a qualification whilst they work – no college classes or tests involved!”
“I see all of the drivers after assessment and I’ve been pleased at how happy they all are with the process. The fact that LLW assessors work when we work is a great benefit - some of my drivers work night shifts and the assessors have been going out at night with them, fitting around the work. The assessors also turn up on time, which is important as we are a very time sensitive business.”
“Because an NVQ is a nationally recognised qualification, it’s not only a benefit to the drivers but it also reflects well upon the company too. I’m now seriously considering rolling out the NVQs to our part time drivers, as well as rolling this out to all our other distribution centres across the country.”
“Since undertaking NVQ training with Logistics Learning World we have noticed a real reduction in road accidents and a reduction, to zero, in the number of complaints received from the general public. Our drivers are also keeping within speed limits since their training, all of which is not only keeping everyone safe, it’s saving fuel costs, reducing our risk and presenting a positive company profile for our vehicles and the business as a whole.”
