BCD & CTA unveil exclusive insurance for newly-qualified D1 drivers

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Addressing the driver shortage affecting Community Transport providers across the UK

Business Choice Direct (BCD), specialist brokers to the community transport (CT) sector, in partnership with the Community Transport Association (CTA), are pleased to announce new and exclusive insurance arrangements that enable CT operators to insure drivers with less than two years’ D1 licence experience, including newly-qualified drivers.

Following challenges faced by a number of CT operators and increasing pressure caused by an ageing driver population, BCD has successfully secured enhanced underwriting support from two specialist insurers. These new arrangements provide CT operators with access to cover that is rarely available elsewhere in the market.

Background: A growing challenge for Community Transport

Drivers who passed their test before 1997 were automatically granted a D1 licence category, but those passing after 1997 must now undertake a specific driving test. As a result, the number of eligible, experienced D1 drivers has declined steadily, making recruitment increasingly difficult for CT organisations.

To remain operational, many CTs are now training their own drivers. Until now, insuring these newly-qualified drivers has been one of the biggest obstacles, with most brokers unable to arrange cover without significant referrals - if at all.

Exclusive facility – no referral required

BCD has secured an exclusive arrangement with a specialist underwriter, that enables CTA members to insure D1 drivers with less than two years’ experience without the need for referral, provided they meet the insurers minimum acceptability criteria. Drivers are insured on an individual, named basis, with licence validation completed by BCD, and the facility is available for both single-vehicle and multi-vehicle minibus contracts.

Because this facility is exclusive to BCD, it positions us as the only broker able to offer non-referred cover at scale for CT organisations needing to train and insure new drivers.

Support for minibus driver training schools

For organisations that provide D1 driver training, BCD can now refer risks directly to the underwriter for consideration. The insurer will review each case individually, taking into account the nature of the training offered, the vehicles involved, safety measures in place, and the organisation’s overall approach to managing driver development. Where accepted, policies will be tailored with appropriate endorsements to reflect the training activity.

Tristan Scaife, Director of Commercial at BCD said “Securing these exclusive arrangements with our insurance partners represents a major step forward for the Community Transport sector. By removing one of the biggest barriers, access to affordable insurance for new D1 drivers, we’re helping CT operators recruit and train the next generation of drivers who keep their communities moving.”

Meeting the needs of an ageing population

CEO of the Community Transport Association (CTA), Victoria Armstrong is excited about this new offering.

“Many of our members have told us that driver shortages are one of their biggest operational challenges. This partnership with BCD provides a practical, sector-wide solution that will help ensure CTs can continue delivering vital services to those who rely on them.”

As the CT sector faces increasing demand and decreasing driver availability, these new arrangements ensure operators can continue providing essential transport to vulnerable and isolated individuals. By enabling CTs to train and insure new drivers quickly and safely, BCD and CTA are supporting long-term sustainability across the sector.

Business Choice Direct Insurance Services® is a trading name of Specialist Broking Retail Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Specialist Broking Retail Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 10301653.  Registered Office: Affinity House, Bindon Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AA