TOO YOUNG
Page 27
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• I write after reading an article (CM, November 8) about race relations and driver shortages. Well I don't know about descrimination against colour, but there certainly is against young drivers.
I am 21 and have been driving commercially since I was 18. I now hold an HGV Class 1 licence and thought that maybe I could get a better job with this qualification, but after applying for every job available for the past three months now realise I don't stand a chance as nobody will even agree to try me once they know my age.
I have even got quotes for my own insurance and have found out that it is not a great deal more than if I was over 25 and I would even be prepared to pay the difference out of my own pocket if it meant I could get a job.
The fact that I'm only 21 doesn't mean I can't do the job as well as anyone else although I admit I may lack the experience of older drivers. But how do I get experience when no-one will employ me?
If the legal age to drive a heavy goods vehicle is 21 then the insurance should be the same as it is an expensive course to do, especially if you have to pay for it yourself.
There must be lots of other young drivers in the same position, and there are so many driving jobs available.
Why can't something be done about this? If you have any suggestions I would be grateful to hear from you.
C Scase Wickford Essex