Gloucestershire-based training specialists C&G Services has been contracted by G4S, the world's leading security solutions group, to deliver training to its drivers.

G4S, a major provider of risk management and protection to governments and businesses around the world with operations in 110 countries, has brought C&G in to provide training over the next five years to enable its drivers to acquire certificates under the Government's new Driver CPC scheme (Certificate of Professional Competence).

C&G Services won Government approval in the summer to provide training under the new scheme, introduced to raise UK driving standards. It requires all new commercial drivers to pass 3½ hours of theory exams in two modules, plus a 90-minute practical test and a 30-minute assessment. Within five years they must then complete a minimum 35 hours of 'periodic' training, after which they will be entitled to a Driver Qualification Card.  

Drivers who already hold a full licence will have what is known as 'acquired rights', which means they will be allowed to go on driving for now - but they too will have to complete the 35 hours of 'periodic' training within five years, or forfeit their licence.

"We'll be putting on courses for G4S every month for the next five years to bring the company's drivers up to speed with the new certificates" says C&G Managing Director Bob Oldmeadow. "This is a very significant new client for us."