UK government considers lowering minimum age for train drivers from 20 to 18 to address workforce shortage.

The UK government is considering lowering the minimum age for train drivers from 20 to 18 to tackle a projected workforce shortage due to the average age of train drivers being 48 and many older employees expected to retire in the next five years. The Department for Transport (DfT) claims that lowering the minimum age would "build resilience" and enable school leavers to take up apprenticeships in the transport sector, providing a clear path into the industry and boosting age diversity, leading to more reliable services and opportunities for young people. The proposal is currently under consultation.

May 16, 2024
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