Looking after yourself as an HGV driver is crucial for both your health and your career. Long hours on the road can take a toll on your body if you don’t take conscious steps to maintain well-being. Being proactive about your health ensures that you can continue to do your job effectively, and it enhances your overall quality of life – here’s our top tips:

Make breaks a priority. According to UK law, HGV drivers must take breaks totalling at least 45 minutes after no more than 4.5 hours of driving (UK Government, 2023). This is not just a legal requirement but a vital aspect of staying alert and focused on the road. Use this time to stretch, walk around a bit, and get a breath of fresh air.

Stay hydrated and eat healthily. Long journeys can often tempt you to snack on convenient but unhealthy foods. Instead, stock up on water and healthy snacks like fruits and nuts to keep your energy levels up without relying on unhealthy foods from service stations.

Don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Quality sleep is essential for maintaining your alertness and reaction time. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep whenever possible. If you’re finding it difficult to sleep during trips, invest in a comfortable mattress or sleep aid that suits your needs.

Your mental health is just as important. Connect with family and friends regularly, even if it’s just a quick call. Being on the road can be isolating, and having a support system back home can make all the difference. Keeping in touch can help you feel less isolated and more supported.

To all the HGV drivers out there – stay safe, stay healthy, and keep on trucking! Remember, your well-being is the key to a long and successful career.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.

Exploring the pros and cons of temp work can be essential in shaping career decisions. We often encounter people grappling with whether a temporary position is the right step for them. Here we explore the benefits and considerations of temporary work.

Pros:

1. Flexibility – Temp work can offer a significant degree of flexibility, allowing individuals to manage their work-life balance more easily.

2. Skill Development – It provides an opportunity to quickly gain diverse experience and develop new skills in various roles and industries.

3. Networking – Temp roles can expand your professional network, leading to future job opportunities.

Cons:

1. Job Security – Temporary positions, by nature, lack long-term security, which can be a significant drawback for many.

2. Benefits – At times temp workers can miss out on benefits that permanent workers are entitled to, depending on the organisation

3. Career Progression – Temporary roles might not always offer the clear career progression found in permanent positions.

Recent statistics show that the temporary employment market in the UK is growing, with a 5% year-on-year increase in temporary roles (ONS, 2024). This suggests that while there are certainly challenges, the opportunity for temporary work is expanding.

For more information about our latest vacancies, or to find out how South57 can support your business, contact us on 0333 344 6845 or office@south57.co.uk.