The RHA Benevolent Fund will supply tools and toolboxes to 20 members to pass on to their apprentice technicians in a bid to support the engineers of the future.
Thanks to a partnership with HGV Direct Ltd and Draper Tools, coach operators who are RHA members will be able to apply to receive one of the kits.
The set will be a full starter kit, including spanners, socket sets, screwdrivers, pliers and more, with a roller chest and top box.
Paul Allera, RHA Technical Director, says: “When I was approached by the RHA Benevolent Fund Team requesting if I could support them with this initiative, I was more than willing to support them.
“For many young individuals thinking about becoming a technician in the truck or coach sectors, the biggest outlay for many starting as an apprentice is their tools of the trade, a big expense.
“This fantastic scheme will take a load off both the individuals and their parents. I can relate to this when I started many, many years ago. I was fortunate – but many of the people I was at college with couldn’t afford tools. This is still the reality for many.
“Our thanks also go to HGV Direct Ltd and Draper Tools, for supporting us with this and making this scheme a reality.”
Jim French MBE, RHA Benevolent Fund Chairman, adds: “Traditionally, it has been the responsibility of the apprentice to buy their own tools, which can cost up to £1,000 for a starter set.
“Some employers may fund their apprentices’ initial tools purchases but, in most cases, the apprentice has this major outlay when they have often only just started to earn a wage.
“In order to support young people starting out as technicians and to encourage more into the industry, the RHA Benevolent Fund has introduced a scheme to provide new starters working for RHA members, with an initial tool kit, free of charge.
“Working in collaboration with Draper Tools and HGV Direct, with expertise provided by Paul Allera, the Benevolent Fund looks to sponsor a first group of 20 apprentices.”
RHA members interested in applying for one of the toolboxes, should email benevolentfund@rha.uk.net by 30 June.
