The programme is being spearheaded by the Road Haulage Association and haulage software company mandata, both of whom are sponsoring giveaways for drivers.
According to those behind the campaign, the aim of the competition is to promote the importance of welfare facilities for lorry drivers as well as respect for their profession.
The competition comes at a time when local councils are continually implementing HGV bans and parking restrictions, while planning applications for HGV parking facilities are also often rejected.
According to the organisers of The UK’s Kindest Town, the criteria drivers should consider when voting is as follows:
- Access to amenities, such as the use of toilets at depots, distribution centres and other delivery sites
- Access to location – no time or weight restrictions that impede delivery
- Good areas to park SAFELY, rest, and shower
- Good, easy access to food
- Good, easy access to fuel
- Good LOCAL roads, fit for HGVs
- Kindness of the local town’s people (positive attitude, etc)
- Kindness of local people on the town’s surrounding roads (courtesy, safe, accommodating driving, etc)
Speaking at the recent Microlise Transport Conference in Coventry, RHA Managing Director Richard Smith said truckers deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.
“Are [drivers] allowed to use the toilet? Is there adequate food? Is there an adequate rest area? And just as important, do they get a kind reception and are they treated as professionals?,” said Smith, pointing out what people should consider when voting.
Votes can be cast here on the mandata website, with those who vote being eligible for a prize draw with the following giveaways:
- £2,500 holiday voucher – just for voting (sponsored by the RHA)
- Weekly £100 Amazon voucher – just for voting (sponsored by Mandata)
- £500 Amazon voucher – for the most creative social post of the kindest town of choice
- £10,000 cash prize – for the UK’s Kindest Town
Photo: © Copyright Alan Murray-Rust and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence