News Archives - Barnes Logistics

The challenges posed by the recent driver shortage

September 27, 2021/in Driving, HGV, News /by The Source Partnership

The nationwide driver shortage has highlighted many problems within the industry, and the government’s understanding of how to deal with it. Many issues are simply the result of unresolved flaws in the driving industry that have remained low on the radar for years, such as persistent low wages, reliance on workers from the EU, and an ageing workforce.

The amenities and infrastructure on UK roads, or lack thereof, as well as long hours have also driven a younger workforce away from the industry. All of this, combined with a pandemic, has meant that the lorry driver shortage in the UK – roughly 100,000 at the moment – must be met with change and improvement in order to solve the crisis.

Testing, testing

One of the potential solutions to the driver shortage is by creating an improved testing system in order to help reduce the backlog of tests, which were briefly stopped during the pandemic.

At the moment, the government is expected to streamline the qualifications required to drive class C large rigid lorries and class C & E heavy goods vehicles into a single test. The current requirements for those wanting to become lorry drivers have to get a car licence, a provisional class C licence and then the full C licence, before applying for the provisional class C & E licence and then going on to pass that test.

Ministers are also expected to allow another element of the tests, showing an ability to conduct manoeuvres such as reversing, to be carried out without the current requirement for a driving examiner.

This would help drivers become qualified quicker and more easily. But would this be the solution to everything?

Mapping the future

Another challenge posed by the driver shortage is how to attract the younger generation to the roles. There were plans to subsidise the workers who have left the UK by enrolling members of the army, however, this has now been delayed until March 2022.

In the meantime, drivers who are over the age of 45 account for almost two-thirds of the workforce, a rate that has been increasing since the early 2000s. The industry needs to ensure that it is an attractive role for those who are looking for work under the age of 45, before the shortage increases even further.

That might mean providing better wages – which we have seen is now in motion. Research by Indeed has shown that wages have been hiked seven times the UK average, which may well help roles become more appealing to younger people.

At Barnes Logistics, we prioritise the welfare of our drivers and are helping to ensure logistics is an attractive and viable option for those looking for a career. We’re proud to call ourselves one of the UK’s leading providers of logistical support and warehousing to time-critical businesses.

What are your thoughts? Get in touch via Twitter or LinkedIn and have your say. For more information on what we do, visit our website, and for more blogs, click here.

A Review of The Hierarchy of Road Users

September 24, 2021/in Driving, News /by The Source Partnership

The new version of the Highway Code, to be published in the autumn, underpins the concept of a ‘hierarchy’ of road users that deems those with the potential to cause the most danger to others to have greater responsibility to those who are more vulnerable than them. These changes are set to apply to our roads in the near future.

But let’s just review this change. Is it the right move for our roads? Or should we be taking another route, one with even footing for all road users?

The first proposed change, Rule H1 of The Highway Code, establishes a hierarchy of road users which ensures that those road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to other road users.

Who is affected?

The hierarchy places vulnerable road users before motorised vehicles so the top of the hierarchy would therefore be:

Pedestrians, in particular children, older adults and disabled people
Cyclists
Horse riders
Motorcyclists

The official statement from the DfT is that the objective of Rule H1 is not to give priority to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders in every situation, but rather to ensure a more mutually respectful and considerate culture of safe and effective road use that benefits all users. This does not detract from the requirement for everyone to behave responsibly.

Drivers of large vehicles such as lorries or buses will be held more accountable for the safety of car occupants, for example, who will likewise be viewed as having more responsible for those further down the scale, such as cyclists, followed by pedestrians.

The response of the Road Haulage Association echoes that of many of us in the industry: that creating a “hierarchy” of road users undermines the simple principal that we are all responsible for the safety of ourselves and others when using roads.

The guilty party?

Lorry drivers can already be forgiven for feeling that they are automatically portrayed as the guilty party whenever there is a collision between lorries and other road users. The proposal to introduce a hierarchy of road users into the Rules of the Highway Code seems to codify that presumption of guilt, instead of emphasising the fact that all road users should bear equal responsibility to take care of themselves, whilst not doing anything that is likely to cause harm to their fellow road users.

None of this is a good starting point for lorry drivers, who find themselves facing prosecution for a driving offence relating to a road traffic collision. You might ask, what happened to the presumption of being innocent until proven guilty?

The changes, finalised following a consultation to which stakeholders including the RHA responded, also see cyclists given priority at junctions when travelling straight on, and provide clarification of safe overtaking distances.

They were supported by road safety campaigners, with the RAC’s head of roads policy, Nicholas Lyes, saying: “These proposals should make cycling and walking safer, and this is to be welcomed.”

However, the RHA maintains that the revisions to the Highway Code are unfair and unsafe and could put vulnerable road users at risk. Now that the greater responsibility is on everybody else, responsibility for themselves could fly out of the window.

Trucking along

The hierarchy of risk created by the operation of cars, vans, coaches, buses, and lorries is already reflected in the additional ongoing training undertaken by lorry and coach drivers. The amount of training hauliers are put through is to ensure their safety as well as every other road users. We don’t undertake such training for fun or for free!

The RHA said it also objects to giving cyclists priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead, highlighting concerns that it may put riders in the blind spot of left-turning drivers, and calling for the change to be scrapped. The proposal to give cyclists a special rule that gives them a right of way to pass a turning vehicle is dangerous, it simply defies logic to promote a manoeuvre that puts cyclist in the dangerous and vulnerable position on the road.

What are your thoughts on the changes come autumn? Join the conversation over on our Twitter or LinkedIn pages. For more Barnes blogs, click here.

Tips For HGV Drivers In The Summer Heat

August 23, 2021/in Driving, HGV, News /by The Source Partnership

Though it might not always feel like it, we’re very much still in the throes of summer at the moment. That means that hot and sunny days are still ahead of us, we hope! Spending long stretches of time on the road means you might get hot and bothered, if you don’t take precautionary measures. We have plenty of experience in driving HGVs and working in warehouses, so here are our team’s top tips for HGV drivers to cope with the heat this summer.

Stay hydrated

It’s an obvious one – but there are no downsides to keeping a water bottle close to you at all times. Keeping hydrated has been scientifically linked to positive concentration levels, feelings of alertness, and it even helps keep your mood at a healthy baseline. According to the NHS, you need to be drinking 6-8 cups of water per day.

You’re bound to sweat more on a hot day, so your body will need to be replenished more than usual to make up for this.

So, we suggest investing in a big water bottle so you can go for long journeys without needing a refill. Keep your body hydrated and happy! To keep extra cool, you could even freeze your bottle beforehand to get ice-cold water on the road.

Use SPF

It’s easy to forget that while we’re on the road, our skin is exposed to rays of sunlight for the entirety of our journey. Some experts even speculate that, on cloudy days, we’re actually more likely to burn due to the fact we’re less inclined to wear SPF, leaving UV and UVB rays to penetrate our skin. Those with skin that burns easily, or who have lots of moles or freckles, should take extra care to look after their skin on the road.

So apply your SPF in the morning, but don’t just apply just once and go! To retain the benefits of the sun cream, it should be reapplied every few hours. Remember that the SPF factor (15, 30, 50 etc.) indicates the time it may take before your skin begins to burn. For example, SPF 15 will give you 15 times the number of minutes before you burn than you’d have with no sun protection at all. The more you know!

Use whatever else is available to block out the sun

Sunglasses, a cap, your windscreen visor – use everything at your disposal to keep the sun away from your eyes and body. Not only do you want to do this for safety reasons, but keeping the sun off you as much as possible is bound to make you feel cooler, and happier!

Keep cool, calm and collected

When your body releases adrenaline that sends blood to the muscles, your circulation increases, giving you an unexpected flash of heat. That’s one thing you don’t need on an already hot day! Try and keep calm and collected on the roads. You can keep the stress minimal by being organised and giving yourself plenty of time to go where you need. Being well-rested will also help with this, so get your eight hours at all costs!

Do you have any tips that you think we’ve missed out? Get in touch with us via Twitter and LinkedIn today.

Tackling The Driver Shortage – The Do’s & Don’ts

August 12, 2021/in Driving, HGV, News /by The Source Partnership

The driver shortage has reached crisis level in the UK, with demand increasing across supply chains as the country recovers from Covid-19. Leading voices within the logistics sector have been meeting with, and appealing to, the Government in an attempt to tackle the ever-increasing shortage of drivers within the sector. Unfortunately, positive outcomes seem few and far between. Here are our “Do’s and Don’ts” for tackling the obvious driver shortage in the UK supply chain.

DO Increase the Number of Overnight Parking Spaces

The lack of available overnight parking spaces has always been, and continues to be an obstacle in attracting more people to the industry. More than 1,400 HGV drivers are forced to spend the night sleeping in their vehicles every day. Despite previous assurances from the Government that provision of adequate locations for drivers to take their legally mandated rest breaks – including short stops and overnight stays – would be prioritised, a lack of progress means that drivers are still being forced to put themselves and their loads at risk. This can result in new entrants being deterred from applying for roles within the sector. Back in 2018, the government promised to supply 1,500 parking spaces for HGVs but is yet to deliver. Without safe and secure locations to take legally mandated rest stops, it’s difficult to attract new talent to the industry.

DO Improve Driver Testing

Currently a potential deterrent to new talent entering the sector, DVSA driver testing needs to be prioritised and the frequency of testing needs to be increased. This will hopefully then welcome a new wave of desperately needed drivers to the workforce. At the moment, the DVSA are facing a backlog of 25,000 tests that are estimated at current rates to take 27 weeks to perform (until the end of January 2022). However, new consultations propose allowing drivers to take one test to drive both an articulated and rigid lorry. This, says the Government, would streamline the process for new drivers to gain their HGV licence and would increase lorry test appointment availability. Although the Government has placed urgent focus on increased testing, the proposals for a reformation of the vocational driving test process to increase test capacity will take time to come into effect, and even longer before the full benefit can be felt.

DO Implement Flexible Delivery Times

The Government has also called on local councils to be flexible around delivery times relating to supermarkets and other retailers, which would allow drivers to make deliveries earlier in the morning or later in the evening where necessary. This relaxation of delivery hours combats reports of fresh food rotting in delivery depots due to a lack of haulage drivers to ship goods across the country, which has led to bare supermarket shelves in some regions.

DO Diversify The Workforce

Currently, it is estimated that less than 1% of the HGV drivers working on the UK’s roads are female. Looking at this statistic, it seems that there needs to be a bigger effort made to encourage women into the sector. How is the logistics industry meant to recover and grow if it’s only attracting male recruits? There is more to be done in attracting talent across all genders into the industry.

DON’T Simplify Training

Hauliers are wrongly criticised enough as it is in the media. When it comes to traffic accidents, HGV drivers are forced to take the brunt of the blame as their vehicle can cause the most damage; even though they have been disproved as the leading cause of traffic accidents. One only needs to take a look at the new ‘hierarchy’ of road users in the Highway Code to understand this. The last thing the logistics sector needs is undertrained drivers, so we need to ensure that testing is fair and abundant, but also appropriate.

DON’T Relax Driver Hours Further

The recently announced temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours rules allows HGV drivers to make slightly longer journeys, but this must only be used where necessary and must not compromise driver safety. This should not become permanent in any case, as the fixed hours ensure that drivers take enough breaks and get sufficient rest in order to maintain focus on the UK’s roads.

What are your thoughts? Get in touch via Twitter or LinkedIn and have your say. For more information on what we do, visit our website, and for more blogs, click here.

What Does Euro-7 Mean For Logistics?

July 27, 2021/in HGV, Logistics, News /by The Source Partnership

With Euro-7 emissions standards set to be introduced before the end of 2025, UK hauliers will have to start preparing for yet another assortment of emissions regulations.

The rules will apply not just to trucks, but to cars, buses and vans too. According to Diesel Information, Euro-7 is an opportunity to introduce a regulatory framework that focuses on real-world emissions, improving European air quality and protecting the public’s health and well-being. Diesel Information also states that Euro-7 will “be biofuel and technology-neutral and legislate based on a total system approach and on a whole vehicle basis.”

This means that it doesn’t matter whether you’ve got a 2-litre or a 7-litre Euro-7 engine, because the technology used inside both will be regulated in the same way. The ability for biofuels to power the new engines improves the transport sector’s sustainable credentials, and some hauliers may opt to ditch the diesel entirely in favour of greener options, like biodiesels made from olive and vegetable oil.

How Does Euro-7 Differ From Euro-6?

Euro-7 legislation differs from Euro-6 because the regulations concern the emissions generated by vehicles during real-world driving conditions. Currently, the measurement of on-road pollutant emissions data goes through post-processing, which excludes the highest emission levels. Conversely, Euro-7 will count the emissions emitted by HGVs and other heavy-duty vehicles that Euro-6 failed to acknowledge.

What Will Euro-7 Legislation Cover?

The European Union’s Euro-7 rules will measure a vehicle’s daily tailpipe emissions, which ensures emission control systems continue to evolve to cope with the variation in real-world pollutants.

When Will The Legislation Come into Force?

Said to be introduced around 2025, Euro-7 regulations will come into effect at a time when emission laws surrounding city and town centres are stricter than ever before. Ultra-Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) and Low Emission Zones are slowly being introduced across the country, too, the largest of which is in London.

Why Is Euro-7 Being Introduced?

The primary purpose of Euro-7 is to help reduce the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, while simultaneously lowering the risk to public health. The key, according to the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA), is to create a “sustainable way of reducing air pollution using a coherent strategy”.

The EPHA also states that Euro-7 will see the introduction of the “most efficient internal combustion engines ever” ahead of 2030’s petrol and diesel ban. The Alliance adds that the new units will be “the healthiest and the lowest polluting” engines ever seen on UK roads, and probably the last.

Downsides Of Euro-7

Cost. When Euro-6 was introduced back in 2014, many hauliers’ fleets, especially in and around London due to incurring costs associated with operating in the capital, were subject to huge refreshes which left many out of pocket. But others were able to retrofit their Euro-5 trucks with devices that lowered the emissions of their engines, which made them compliant with Euro-6 standards. This costed considerably less than buying a new vehicle, too.

In summary, there is no doubt that Euro-7 welcomes a new era of efficiency and health-conscious powerplants that will help to improve the efficiency of fleets across the UK. But vehicles with these engines may prove more costly to purchase.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) In The Supply Chain

July 15, 2021/in Driving, News /by The Source Partnership

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around since 1956, and has been evolving ever since to become more efficient. It operates behind the scenes but is already a part of everyday life. For example, if you’ve ever been offered suggestions when purchasing goods online, then that’s AI doing its job. Artificial intelligence really is everywhere.

Despite this, AI has only recently been gaining traction in the transportation, manufacturing, and distribution industries. Software that uses AI technology to solve complex problems effectively and efficiently is being introduced throughout global supply chains. Here are some of the main areas where AI has been introduced within our industry:

During automated processes and actions
Assisting with human decision making by interpreting data and reducing potential man-made errors

As global supply chains become more complex, there are less margins for error. With growing competition in an increasingly connected and digital world, maximising productivity by reducing any uncertainties is vital.

AI In Action

AI is used both internally and externally by organisations to improve operations within a company’s supply chain. Internally, historical sales information can be used to identify patterns and forecast demand using intelligent algorithms. This can be used to help supply meet demand as it allows companies to better understand their customers spending habits, enabling them to accurately predict future demand.

AI Inside Distribution Centres

In distribution centres, AI is coupled to picking systems, driverless forklifts, and intelligent robots. AI-powered wearable tech such as smart glasses, watches and voice-activated headsets are more efficient than their handheld counterparts, too. Digital cameras are routinely used to monitor stock levels and to provide restock alerts when stocks get too low. AI algorithms can even forecast when orders will arrive, which means pallets can be placed ahead of time to maximise efficiency.

AI In Logistics And Transport

The transportation of goods often generates huge volumes of data. However, with the help of AI, transport companies can analyse these figures and gain a better insight into their operations. They can identify areas for improvement and reduce the margins for error across the board. This technology also makes it possible for organisations to automate load forecasting, route planning and vehicle scheduling to lower delivery times. The latest transport management systems (TMS) include AI functionality that provides real-time information from raw data which can influence key decisions. Shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consumers are all benefiting from AI-driven TMS technology.

Despite all of AI’s benefits, there are still some teething problems. Firstly, the cost and integration of AI software is significant – so much so that only large companies can afford to design their own AI solutions. Secondly, an interactive human interface is still required. There are some problems that require a human touch; even the best AI systems cannot solve everything. Managers must also be able to monitor data and even override AI decisions when necessary. Finally, although AI’s productivity increase releases people from performing the mundane and unfulfilling tasks, there are still concerns that the introduction of new technologies will result in job losses.

Now that we’ve delved into the workings of artificial intelligence in the supply chain, what are your thoughts on this? Get in touch via Twitter or LinkedIn and have your say. For more information on what we do, visit our website, and for more blogs, click here.

6 Top Tips for Newly Qualified HGV Drivers

June 23, 2021/in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety, Uncategorized, weather /by The Source Partnership

If you’ve just gotten your HGV license, a career on the open road could be a hugely exciting prospect. However, it isn’t without its stresses and pressures due to varying workloads and challenging driving conditions. Whatever part of the country you’re in, each has its share of testing issues, even for the most experienced driver!

Having said that, there are a few nifty tips and tricks we’ve picked up over the years to help things run smoothly and we’d like to share them with you. Check out some of these top tips to prepare you for your new driving career.

Preparation and planning

Perhaps this is one of the most important points when looking at top tips around HGV jobs. Taking the time to map out your route can save you so much time and energy (not to mention fuel) in the long run. You will need to remember to plan rest stops, refuelling and anything else that may be required on your journey.

If you’re new to a job, getting to know routes takes time, and in some cases, Sat Nav’s can take you down wrong roads and dead ends. By taking the time to check out the details of your route before you head out, it will help to relieve any stress or anxiety on your first trips. Plus, you’ll get where you need to be in plenty of time.

As Franklin once said:

“Fail to prepare, prepare to fail”

Check the height of your vehicle

Before you begin your journey, you need to be aware of the height of your vehicle and your trailer. Bridge collisions are a common occurrence with lorries and trailers, as drivers think they can squeeze through. If you’re unsure when you get to a bridge that you weren’t anticipating, it’s not a good idea to just go for it. Lorries getting stuck under bridges can cause severe traffic disruption and will not make you popular with your employer.

Take a break

It’s essential as an HGV driver to be alert at all times; however, you can’t do this if you push your body to the limits. A tachograph will monitor your driving times, and there are set rules that are essential to adhere to. If not followed, you could face major fines and even driving bans. These rules are set in place to help you avoid exhaustion and make the roads safe for everyone.

Make sure to take these breaks at regular intervals to ensure your attention span remains at full capacity whilst on the road. Rest your eyes or get some fresh air, the roads can become dangerous if you are not paying attention.

Vehicle checks

You wouldn’t drive a car that wasn’t fit for purpose, and the same goes for an HGV. Before you head out on any journey, it’s vital to complete a full vehicle check to ensure its suitable to drive. It is your responsibility to do a physical examination and report anything back to management to ensure it is resolved before you head out on the road.

Be considerate and mindful on the road

It is not just yourself you have to look out for, but you also need to keep a careful watch on your fellow drivers. It is a good idea to learn how to understand when motorists want to overtake you, getting a feel for things like that, and reacting quickly and accurately to other motorists’ actions can be helpful. Always be on guard as to what other motorists may do and be ready to react safely to help avoid accidents. Not everyone is clued up to your blind spots and could easily put themselves in danger around you and your vehicle.

Exercise

The thing with HGV driving is that you are required to sit for long periods. This can take its toll on your body as well as your mind. When you get the chance, exercise a little. Go for a walk or do some stretching to get the blood flowing. Driving can also have effects on your mental health so ensure you’re taking time out to focus on self-care and fitness to keep on top of your overall health.

Want to share your own tips, get in touch via our Twitter or LinkedIn pages. Alternatively, email us at admin@barneslogistics.co.uk or check out our website.

Is HGV Driving a Good Career Choice in 2021?

June 15, 2021/in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety /by The Source Partnership

If you’re considering a career as an HGV driver, you’re probably wondering what it’s like up in the cab – is it the right choice for you?

Is HGV driving a good career choice in 2021? You probably have many questions just like this, so we’ve put together our thoughts to help you determine whether a future in logistics is for you.

What does the job entail?

HGV stands for heavy goods vehicle; this transpires as any vehicle weighing over 3.5 tonnes (all the way up to 44 tonnes). As a driver you will be responsible for transporting goods from A to B. HGV drivers can work locally, nationally, or internationally depending on the company and/or the goods.

As you can imagine, lorry drivers spend a lot of time on the road and, depending on where they work, can spend a lot of time away from home. It’s common for a lot of HGV drivers to spend a night or two in the cab of their lorry and often they can be away for the whole working week. The hours of an HGV driver are long – typically between 45-50 hours each week.

Drivers are not just responsible for transport but also for the loading and unloading of goods as well as making sure you have all the correct documents you need on arrival and departure of your destination. HGV drivers often work alone, however this is frequently a positive for many people as they enjoy the freedom that this brings.

What qualifications do I need?

The most important thing you will need is obviously a valid UK driving license. You then need to acquire an HGV Class 1 and 2 training which will teach you how to drive any vehicle carrying goods of up to 44 tonnes. Training is a mixture of practical and theory followed by four final examinations.

Combined, preparations should cost around £3000 for a full licence and Driver CPC. Whilst this may seem a lot, when you compare it to the cost of many other vocational courses, including university degrees, it is definitely a more affordable road to go down!

Will I be able to get work easily?

There is no doubt that the UK is experiencing a driver shortage. The current lorry driver shortage is estimated at around 70,000 drivers and with demand consistently increasing this number is only going skywards. Companies are constantly on the lookout for newly qualified drivers meaning you are unlikely to struggle to find work. By training to become an HGV driver, your services and skills are likely to be in demand for some time.

What is the pay like?

With so much training to complete prior and the number of hours spent away from home, what’s the payoff?

Typically, an HGV driver’s starting wages are between £19-24k. The more training you receive and the more experience you have will see this number rise dramatically. The most experienced and qualified drivers can expect to earn over £40k per year.

Why should I become a haulier?

HGV driving is a valuable and rewarding career, and in the current climate, it is more important than ever. With a dramatic increase in e-commerce, especially over the past year, goods transportation is in high demand. Also, with the current shortage of drivers, you’re almost guaranteed a job with a reputable company and the chance to pursue a career that you want.

Want more information or looking for some advice? Get in touch via our Twitter or LinkedIn pages. Alternatively, email us at admin@barneslogistics.co.uk or visit our website.

Barnes Logistics on: The Hierarchy of Road Users

May 26, 2021/in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety, Uncategorized, weather /by The Source Partnership

Any sensible road user knows that we all owe the same duty of care to one another. Everyone needs to take reasonable care to not cause injury or damage to other road users.

There is currently no higher duty of care expected of lorry drivers, than there is of any other road user. However, this is likely to change soon, with new rules expected to be brought into the Highway Code for the first time in years.

The new rules will include an introduction to the new hierarchy of road users. These rules are set to place the emphasis on those who can do the greatest damage, ensuring that they will bear the greatest responsibility for the safety of all other road users.

These proposed changes aim to improve the safety of vulnerable road users. Currently, the Highway Code classifies vulnerable road users as:

– Pedestrians

– Cyclists

– Motorcyclists

– Horse riders

The code as it stands already advises motorists to take extra care around vulnerable road users (as well as children, the elderly, disabled people and learner drivers).

It also takes into the account the extra difficulties faced by large vehicles, such as lorries and HGVs. For example, Rules 221 & 222 of the Code emphasise the nature of difficulties specific to lorry drivers, such as their need for extra space when turning their large vehicles, the fact that lorry drivers will not be able to see vehicles which move into their blind spot and that lorries may be subject to lower speed limits or have speed restrictors fitted.

But how will these changes to The Highway Code affect lorry drivers?

As well as introducing a hierarchy of road users, the proposed changes plan to:

Clarify the current rules on pedestrian priority on pavements. Drivers and riders will need to give priority to pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross the road.

Set out safe passing distance guidance to motorists for when they overtake cyclists or horse riders and ensuring that both have priority at junctions when their intention is to travel ahead.

These new rules are indisputable. Few would argue against the introduction of further measures to protect the most vulnerable of road users.

Instead, what is concerning many in the haulage industry, is the idea of setting out a hierarchy amongst road users. Creating a “hierarchy” undermines the simple fact that we should all be responsible for our own safety on the road as well as others.

The new table of hierarchy will place ‘pedestrians’ at the pinnacle and at the bottom you will find ‘large vehicles’, with the latter bearing a greater responsibility to reduce the threat of danger they pose to all others above them in the hierarchical table.

Emphasis should remain on the fact that all road users need to bear equal responsibility for their safety, whilst not putting themselves in situations that could cause harm to fellow road users. Rules denoting the contrary will surely lead to disarray.

What are your thoughts on the new proposed rules? Join the conversation over on our Twitter or LinkedIn pages.

For more Barnes blogs, click here.

Mental Health Awareness Week and Beyond

May 17, 2021/in Customers, Driving, HGV, LGV, Logistics, lorry, News, safety, Uncategorized, weather /by The Source Partnership

Nature was the theme of this year’s mental health awareness week.

During the long months of the pandemic, millions of us turned to nature. Going for walks outside was one of the top coping strategies for many of us holed up in our homes. Research by The Mental Health Foundation found that 45% of participants reported that green spaces had been vital to the upkeep of our mental health. Websites which showed footage from webcams of wildlife saw hits increase by over 2000%! It seems that people not only spent more time in nature but were actively seeking it more.

Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to achieve good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world. Think about how good it feels to take a breath of fresh air after being cooped up all day? Imagine feeling like that all the time. That’s the power nature holds. It’s up to us to reach out and grab it.

For most of human history, we have lived as part of nature. It is only in the last five generations that so many of us have lived and worked in a setting that is largely separated from nature. Being surrounded by concrete can become monotonous and bring down our mood. Nature however, with its ever-changing state can serve to evolve the landscape and break the monotony of your day to day.

In fact, a 1960s study in the US found that patients who were treated in hospitals with a view of nature recovered faster. Since then, science has started to unpack the extraordinary health benefits of nature. It has the unique ability to not only bring consolation in times of stress, but also increase our creativity, empathy and a sense of wonder. It turns out that it is not just being in nature but how we open ourselves up and interact with nature that counts. Even a little contact with nature can reduce feelings of social isolation and be effective in protecting our mental health and preventing distress.

Nature is our great untapped resource for a mentally healthy future.

Despite many of us being aware of this, we are not accessing or benefitting from nature. It can be hard for those living in built up cities and for the 13% of UK households that have no access to a garden. Nature should not be a luxury. It is a resource that must be available for everyone to enjoy – as basic as having access to clean water or a safe roof over our heads.

Looking to the Future

2021 is going to be a huge year for nature: a new Environment Bill will go through the UK Parliament which will shape the natural world for generations to come; the UK will host the G7 nations where creating a greener future will be a key priority and a historic international UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) will be hosted in Glasgow in November.

There could not be a more important time to understand the links between nature and mental health.

So get out there and experience your natural surroundings. Take time to recognise and grow your connection with nature. Take a moment to notice and celebrate nature in your daily life. Try welcoming a minute of silence to just listen to the birds in the early morning (especially if you’re up early enough to catch the dawns chorus!)

‘There is something to be wondered at in all of Nature’ – Aristotle

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw.

Also let us know how you’re doing or share some of your experiences with nature with us via our Twitter or LinkedIn pages. For more blogs, click here.