By Martin Dean

As we mark our eleventh National Lorry Week it’s as good a time as any to showcase collaboration between our industry and the police.

I recently spent a day with the Metropolitan Police Commercial Vehicle Unit (CVU) and saw first-hand their deep commitment to driver safety and mutual respect.

My day began at the CVU’s base in Catford, south-east London, where I met Inspector Richard (Rik) Wenman; I was immediately struck by his deep understanding of the challenges lorry drivers face in the capital.

Our first stop was to RHA member, Holcim, UK a few miles away in Greenwich, where the CVU delivered their award-winning toolbox talk to a dozen or so drivers.

The company has been working with Rik and his team for a number of years showing how seriously they take road safety and protecting vulnerable road users in London.

The toolbox talk was launched in July 2022 and has been delivered to more than 70,000 drivers including light goods operators too; it’s funded by the Met Police and TfL and offered free of charge to operators of all sizes across London to reduce road deaths and injuries in the capital.

The CVU also goes to primary schools, teaching children to gain eye contact by waving at drivers before using zebra crossings – a simple, life-saving technique.

My day continued in the CVU’s unmarked tractor unit, “Daphnie,” used to spot drivers breaking traffic laws, targeting cars, vans, and lorries alike. On the M25 we quickly identified a car driver texting, resulting in a six-point penalty and a £200 fine. Even more striking was spotting an HGV driver eating while steering with his elbows…

At the Dartford Crossing, I saw inspections targeting overloaded vans and checks on load security and drivers' hours. The day concluded with an impressive training exercise: simulating an escorted abnormal load movement through heavy London traffic, flawlessly executed by the outriders.

One thing really stood out to me is their compassionate approach to lorry drivers involved in incidents.

CVU officers arrive on scene in Sprinter vans and immediately escort the lorry driver inside, away from public view, offering tea and coffee. Inspector Wenman said that they recognise that the driver is a lone worker who has just experienced serious trauma. It’s not for them to judge or presume guilt, instead, fostering an attitude of respect and humanity during what could be a life changing situation for the driver.

My day with the CVU was eye-opening. The unit is determined to break down barriers and improve relationships with our industry through collaboration and dialogue. And that’s something we should celebrate during National Lorry Week.