Van Excellence launches CALM solution for drivers’ mental health

Added: 13 November 2018

Van Excellence launches CALM solution for drivers’ mental health

To raise awareness of mental health issues and provide help and support for those who could be suffering, Van Excellence has launched a new campaign in partnership with charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

The campaign seeks to address the stigma around mental health and raise awareness of the resources available for men, many working as drivers, who could be uncertain of where to get help and advice.

With one in five van drivers describing their current mental health as poor or very poor, the scheme will see support packs and information distributed to drivers. Crafted by Van Excellence in association with the charity’s key advisers, the packs promote CALM’s support services.

“When I heard suicide is now the biggest killer of men under 45, I was moved to take action,” explained Mark Cartwright, Head of Vans & Light Commercial Vehicles at the FTA, which administers the scheme. “Van drivers often operate in highly pressured and lonely environments, and the combination of tight deadlines and isolation can lead to stress, exhaustion and poor nutrition.

“Too often, individuals suffer in silence and we hope this campaign will help to overcome the stigma associated with this illness and provide much-needed support.”

Simon Gunning, the CEO of CALM, added: “The work Van Excellence is doing to support their drivers is outstanding and we’re delighted to be partnering with them. We believe the packs will start plenty of conversations – some of which might just be lifesaving – so we’re proud to be getting the CALM message out across this community.”