RHA has pledged its support for two major initiatives aimed at reducing stigma around diabetes and improving workplace support for employees living with the condition.
Announced by RHA Managing Director Richard Smith (pictured) during a recent industry roundtable, the initiatives form part of a broader effort to make the commercial transport sector the UK’s first “diabetes safe” industry.
The roundtable was hosted by the Diabetes Safety Organisation, the Parliamentary Action Council for Transport Safety, and Driving for Better Business. It explored the challenges posed by diabetes within the road transport sector, including its impact on driver safety, productivity, and workforce retention.
Mr Smith reveals that RHA is committed to developing an action plan shaped by industry feedback. “We are committed to making commercial transport the first diabetes safe industry in the UK and have several initiatives planned for 2025 to achieve a better work environment for all logistics professionals,” he says.
Industry guidance
According to an RHA industry survey, individuals who drive for a living are twice as likely to develop diabetes compared to the general population. This increased risk has implications for safety with unmanaged diabetes potentially leading to hypoglycaemic episodes, raising the likelihood of accidents.
As part of its pledge, RHA will collaborate with the Diabetes Safety Organisation to produce a driver guidance paper designed to help operators better understand how to support diabetic staff. RHA also plans to achieve Diabetes Safe Accreditation this year and share the process with its members to encourage wider adoption.
“We have been partners with the Diabetes Safety Organisation for several years, raising awareness of Diabetes and how Type 2 in particular can be prevented,” adds Mr Smith. “As a signee of the Diabetes Safety Organisation Charter, we are committed to provide awareness training to staff. We continually promote glucose testing and provide clean suitable places for those with diabetes who need to test their blood sugar levels or inject medication.”
Find out more about how to get involved with the Diabetes Safety Organisation.
