Presented by Rt. Hon. Seema Malhotra MP and Traffic Commissioner Sarah Bell
Government Recognition – DVSA Cardiopulmonary
‘Thirty thousand people a year have a heart incident outside of a hospital environment’
Govt dept-body recognition in transport
Vision to save lives on the roads
Engaging the Drivers to deliver cardiology
DVSA bring Cardiology to driver theory test to save lives
Saving lives on the road with change to theory test
DVSA Bob Hannigan keynote on driver theory test change for cardiopulmonary support
Masterclass keynote by DVSA Bob Hannigan at IOC Round Table. CPR in driving test theory test by Bob Hannigan. ‘Thirty thousand people a year have a heart incident every year outside of a hospital environment. Bob challenged the fellows with operational cpr questions, the answers were strong and correct. Link for first aid updates in Highway code.’
Driver Training to save lives added to theory test
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is adding questions about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and how to use defibrillators (AED) into the official learning materials for car and motorcycle theory tests
• The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is adding questions about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and how to use defibrillators (AED) into the official learning materials for car and motorcycle theory tests
• This is part of a partnership working with leading national programmes from across the UK to raise awareness of these life-saving skills
• All road users are being encouraged to learn basic CPR skills and know how to use a defibrillator in an emergency
DVSA is encouraging learner drivers to learn life-saving skills in a move that could reduce strain on the NHS, boost cardiac arrest survival rates and increase the number of people with vital emergency skills. Questions on basic CPR and defibrillator use will be added to the car and motorcycle theory test in early 2026. Learners are encouraged to prepare by picking these skills up early. Drivers are often first on the scene when someone suffers a cardiac arrest. Adding this information into the official learning materials means that the 2.4 million learner drivers who take their theory test each year will have a better understanding of the skills to use in an emergency.
This is part of a partnership with DVSA and leading national programmes including the Save a Life programmes in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and Resuscitation Council UK, the leading healthcare charity responsible for setting CPR guidelines. The initiative also supports the UK Government's Plan for Change commitment to build an NHS fit for the future by reducing preventable deaths and easing pressure on emergency services.
Safety at roadside is a key unit of the Express manager degree apprenticeship and taught as a University unit for managers dealing with fleet to help drivers save lives. The Degree hosted at UWL is levy paid and next starts begging in Sept and then Feb for the 2026 new year.
Safer roads, safer lives - In the UK, over 40,000 people suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, with fewer than 1 in 10 surviving - but if CPR is given and a defibrillator used within 3-5 minutes of collapse, survival rates could be as high as 70%.
DVSA Chief Driving Examiner, Mark Winn said: “Part of being a safe and responsible driver is knowing what to do in an emergency – how to step in and make a real, life-saving difference. “Learning CPR and how to use a defibrillator is a very simple skill and adding this into the official learning resource is a great way for DVSA to support the drive to raise awareness.”
Official learning materials have already been updated to give learner drivers time to familiarise themselves with the new content. This includes The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – the essential skills and The Official DVSA Guide to the Theory Test for Car Drivers, with updates to motorcycle publications to follow.
The driving theory test is taken by learner drivers before they can book their practical driving test. The test has 2 parts that are booked and taken together:
• multiple-choice questions - 50 questions covering topics from road signs and traffic laws to vehicle safety, hazard awareness and first aid. Learners must get at least 43 out of 50 right to pass this section
• hazard perception - a video test about identifying developing hazards on the road
You must pass both parts to pass the overall test.
Over 2 million theory tests are taken each year, with a pass rate of 45% between April 2023 and March 2024.This means that in preparing for their test and studying for the enhanced questions, hundreds of thousands of people annually will gain knowledge of life-saving skills.
Common scenarios where drivers might need CPR skills include:
• road traffic incidents - following vehicle collisions, people may suffer cardiac arrest due to trauma, shock, or underlying medical conditions made worse by the stress of an incident
• roadside emergencies - drivers can encounter people who have collapsed at bus stops, service stations, or while walking along roads - these may include joggers suffering sudden cardiac arrest, elderly pedestrians, or people with underlying heart conditions who collapse in public spaces
• service area incidents - at motorway services, petrol stations, and car parks, drivers witness medical emergencies where their intervention could save lives before professional help arrives breakdowns - when assisting someone with a broken-down vehicle, drivers may encounter people experiencing medical emergencies, particularly older drivers or those with pre-existing health conditions who become distressed during vehicle problems.
These images of CPR questions as they would appear on a theory test are available for use in a news story with credit given to DVSA:
David Jamieson Road Safety Award
2 winners, SHIFT & Whistl.
SHIFT (Structured Health Intervention for Transport ) programme.
A driver-focused practical health programme
HGV drivers face some of the worst health outcomes of any profession, with long hours, sedentary work, and limited access to wellness services.
This programe recognised this gap and, in collaboration with the Leicester Diabetes Centre (NHS) , co-designed SHIFT with input from drivers, unions, and industry leaders.
The programme was rigorously tested in an NIHR-funded cluster RCT,
It was shown to significantly improve physical activity levels, reduce sitting time, and support long-term healthy lifestyle change particularly among drivers living with obesity.
Leicester Diabetes Centre (NHS) in conjunction with Loughborough University
Professor Stacey Clemes
Professor Stacy Clemes is an exceptional academic whose pioneering work has delivered transformative impact in the courier and logistics sector through the development and rollout of the SHIFT (Structured Health Intervention For Transport ) programme. Over the past decade, Stacy has led a research and implementation journey that has not only improved the health of thousands of HGV drivers but is now shaping best practice in professional driver training and occupational health.
What sets Stacy apart is her unwavering commitment to real-world application. Working alongside major logistics companies including Wincanton and DHL, she translated SHIFT into a DVSA-accredited Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) module. To date, over 6,500 drivers have engaged with the programme, with 77% reporting intentions to change their behaviour. The initiative has improved morale, job satisfaction, and raised health awareness across Wincanton's entire driving workforce.
One Wincanton driver commented:
“Two of the guys at my site have now broken the 2-stone weight loss point, which is amazing — and others are being far more active and getting great results. Including myself — I’ve started running again and lost 10 lbs. This in itself proves what an excellent programme SHIFT is!”
Stacy leads with integrity, humility, and a team-first ethos. She is widely respected not only for her research but also for her inclusive leadership style, fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and the NHS. She is a mentor, role model, and advocate for improving the lives of those often overlooked in public health.
By bringing world-class research into the heart of the courier sector, Stacy is redefining occupational health and delivering national, measurable impact. Her contribution is not just academic — it is human, far-reaching, and worthy of national recognition.
Whistl
Road Safety Award double-year recognition
A nomination building on a robust platform win from last year
School road safety visits near depots across the country
Community engagement installing early awareness of road safety
The team developed a comprehensive 12-month toolbox talk plan
hydration and healthier habits for driver programme.
2024, achieved a 34% reduction in incidents compared to the previous year.
In 2025, the team have observed a reduction in the severity of the incidents
Ongoing commitment to road safety.
Road Safety Award for the second year running
Whistl Driver Training Team for the
Mark Broad nominates the Whistl Driver Training Team for the Road Safety Award for the second year running, due to their ongoing commitment to road safety.
Community Engagement and Educational Outreach - During the Brake Road Safety Week in November 2024, the Whistl Driver Training team visited several schools near our depots across the country. The driver trainers targeted primary school children, aiming to instil early awareness of road safety principles. The sessions included engaging toolbox talks on the Highway Code and the dangers associated with distracted walking, which is a common hazard among young children. To enhance experiential learning, the team show cased a range of vehicles, including a 44-tonne HGV, a Whistl van, and an electric car, allowing children to explore and understand different vehicle types firsthand. The schools appreciated the interactive experience with Whistl and valued the time and effort dedicated to promoting road safety among younger generations. The visits were so popular that they will be repeating this initiative this year during Brake Road Safety Week.
Road Safety Fundraiser - Our Bedford driver trainer, Steve Gelling, undertook a skydiving challenge, successfully raising £1,076 for Brake, the leading road safety charity. This effort exemplifies the team’s dedication to supporting broader safety initiatives beyond their immediate operational responsibilities.
Proactive Safety Programs and Driver Well-being - The team developed a comprehensive 12-month toolbox talk plan focusing on fostering a safety-first culture. A key focus in August 2025 was addressing driver fatigue, a critical factor in road incidents. To support this, Whistl invested in stainless steel water bottles for all drivers, encouraging continuous hydration and healthier habits. This initiative aims to reduce fatigue-related incidents and promote overall driver well-being.
Achievements in Incident Reduction and Continuous Improvement - The Driver Training team has prioritised ongoing continuous improvement to minimise incident rates. In 2024, they achieved a 34% reduction in incidents compared to the previous year. However, in 2025, we have observed a reduction in the severity of the incidents, along with a continued reduction, particularly in Bristol. The team’s persistent efforts and data-driven approach have been instrumental in advancing road safety standards within Whistl.
Through their innovative programs, community engagement, and unwavering commitment to safety, the Driver Training Team exemplifies leadership in road safety. Their work not only benefits Whistl’s drivers but also contributes positively to the wider community, making them highly deserving of this recognition.
Presented by Alderman Alison Gowman and Leon Daniels
Team Award
Two winners in 2025 - CitySprint Library – Royal Mail USO
CitySprint Library Team
Corporate Team - The library Consortium Contract team – A team group shortlisting
Ian Brewster & Imran Hussain.
The team Played a huge part this year in ensuring the library Consortium Contract remains a success.
Team willingly adjusts delivery times for clients.
A team of friendly face across the contract clients.
Team member chosen to feature on the contract’s media showcase
Client - What truly sets Ian apart is his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Supporting the training of new team members
CitySprint Corporate Team - The library Consortium Contract team,
Ian Brewster & Imran Hussain.
CitySprint Ian Brewster Self Employed contract Courier
London east - The library Consortium Contract
Ian works on the Libraries Consortium Contract covering several boroughs including The Borough of Waltham Forest.
The libraries contract helps to manage the financial pressure faced by all councils across London by offering a mechanism to share books & resources throughout the London Boroughs. Ian has played a huge part this year in ensuring the Library Consortium Contract remains a success.
Ian’s dedication and hard work enable books & resources to arrive when the libraries’ customers request them, keeping the Libraries and their customers happy. Waltham Forrest 9 Libraries can function by having access to shared resources across the borough and throughout London. The contract in place benefits the whole of the Waltham Forrest community ensuring the long-term sustainability of 9 key libraries and the wider network by strengthening their role as community hubs.
Quote From Jill Ennis - Libraries and Community Manager - London Borough of Waltham Forest
“I would like to recommend Ian for the Courier Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication, reliability, and outstanding service in the field of delivery and logistics.
Ian has been a vital part of our team at City Sprint, consistently going above and beyond to ensure timely and secure deliveries for Waltham Forest Libraries. His punctuality, attention to detail, and respectful communication with the library staff have earned him consistent praise from both colleagues and library personnel.
What truly sets Ian apart is his unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether navigating complex routes across Waltham Forest Borough, managing high-volume delivery days, or supporting the training of new team members, Ian approaches every task with professionalism, calmness, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Over the past two years, Ian has maintained an outstanding service record—zero delivery complaints, 100% on-time deliveries, and high praise from staff—making him a model employee and a key asset to our operation. Ian is a true example of what a professional courier looks like.
CitySprint Imran Hussain. Self employed contract Courier
London East - The Libraries Consortium - Barking and Dagenham (For Home Library Service and Schools Library Service)
Imran carries out our deliveries and collections for the Home Library Service and the Schools Library Service across the whole of Barking and Dagenham. Imran delivers books and audio CDs to all Home Library Service clients. He is conscientious, reliable, courteous, and their vulnerable housebound residents have a great deal of trust in him. Imran will always let the Hubs Officers know if he is unable to get an answer from vulnerable residents when he calls and will take the time to let them know if he has any concerns about them.
He also willingly adjusts delivery times for clients if asked (i.e., if they have appointments or carer visits etc., they need to attend).
When the customers have clients who unfortunately pass away, the hub officers know that Imran also feels sadness like they do as he sees all the clients on a regular basis.
Imran takes his work very serious and is a well-known and friendly face across all the libraries and their customers within Barking & Dagenham.
Quote from all the team combined - Julia Bailey, Hubs Officer – Specialist Services, Schools Library Service Home Library Service Valence Library, Becontree Avenue, Dagenham
“During Covid and the lockdowns, we made the decision to try and keep the Home Library Service running, as a ‘doorstep delivery’ service. With Imran’s invaluable and reliable help, we did not miss a single delivery throughout the pandemic. It’s largely down to Imran’s willingness to deliver to residents that our clients were provided with their books and CDs to keep them going and to see a friendly face – albeit at a distance – This got them through such difficult times. They still comment today at how the service provided a lifeline to them
One of our clients, Mrs S says: ‘He’s lovely, always polite, really patient and kind, he never rushes you. He’s been doing our deliveries for a long time, and I hope he continues to deliver to us.’
For the Schools Library Service, Imran is again reliable and conscientious, carrying out bulky deliveries and collections to our primary schools, with particularly busy days at the beginning and end of terms when it’s time to deliver and collect our Curriculum Support Loan boxes. There may be well over a hundred heavy boxes to deal with in one stint. Several times these busiest weeks have coincided with Ramadan, but Imran has risen to the challenge and completed everything for us.
Imran is also mindful of the demands of our services when planning his leave, which is so considerate of him.
Imran always goes the extra mile to ensure that the requirements of our services are well met, and he is a credit to the Citysprint Team!”
Royal Mail Universal Service Obligation (USO) Reform Programme Team
Team award nomination
The team made monumental changes to working practices, never seen on this scale in the company’s history.
Leadership skills of a people team impacting change across the brand
Delivering regulation success to reform for 32 million addresses
This team developed a pilot
Rolled out to 35 sites
Agreed with OFCOM to achieve regulatory reform
Developed to units nationally
Royal Mail USO Reform Programme Team
Iain Richardson, USO Reform Programme Director, Kate Flintoft, Operations Programme Director and Gail Nimmo, Head of People Transformation
The Royal Mail USO Reform Programme team have made monumental changes to working practices, never seen on this scale in the company’s history. The 300-strong programme team led by Iain Richardson, USO Reform Programme Director, Kate Flintoft, Operations Programme Director and Gail Nimmo, Head of People Transformation have achieved a significant milestone of USO Reform, a successful pilot across 35 units and taken strides towards full deployment of a generational change at Royal Mail.
The USO Programme Team has demonstrated collaboration, creativity and resilience to deliver once-in-a-generation reform.
They have innovated across operations, technology and engagement, set the organisation up for success, and taken a large workforce on the change journey.
Unlike many other brands Royal Mail is regulated to deliver UK wide to every address by the govt Dept OFCOM.
The people play a vital role in connecting 32 million addresses through the Universal Service Obligation (USO) – our legal commitment to a one-price-goes-anywhere service. Whilst proud to deliver the USO, Royal Mail recognises that consumer behaviours have changed with fewer letters being sent to more addresses and parcels becoming fiercely competitive across the industry.
After years of engagement and making the case for change, on 10th July 2025, Ofcom announced regulatory reform, a monumental milestone and landmark moment driven by Royal Mail’s dedicated teams. Strategy, programmes, operations, technology, commercial, legal, HR and corporate affairs worked together to present compelling evidence for change, backed by deep customer insight and a successful 35 office pilot showcasing reform in action.
This reform represents the biggest operational change since the introduction of second class stamps in 1968. With more than 130,000 colleagues and over 1,200 delivery offices, changes at this scale required thoughtful, inclusive approaches. The USO Programme team set out to equip leaders, guide a long-standing workforce through transition and maximise engagement while working closely with trade unions.
Royal Mail does more than deliver letters and parcels, it’s an institution that’s been on the UKs doorsteps and in the nation’s hearts for 500 years.
This work has been driven through collaboration, creativity, curiosity and has truly tested the limits of what is possible. Key achievements include:
• 35 pilot sites launched across the UK, engaging over 2500 colleagues in new ways of working in just 4 months
• 37 Mail processing centres behaviourally changed ways of working and workplan to introduce standardised segregation
• Bespoke engagement products, including ‘USO Files’ in all 1200 units to bring USO reform to life to all colleagues creating a clear change narrative outlining the reasons for reform and the benefits for our colleagues “The part we all play”
• Innovative in-house technological solutions including a new algorithm designed to set both the alternate day and coincidental requirements of the new model and a revised Saturday plan for every office
• New learning programmes created, equipping 3000 frontline managers to lead their teams through change, to run the new operation.
• Mobilising 3400 workplace coaches with new learning products to upskill in excess of 80,000 front-line colleagues in the new ways of working
• Improved resourcing models to simplify local duty sets and enable improved standardisation
• A 300 strong deployment team mobilised to support to 1237 sites “National Change delivered locally”
Corporate Green Award
SkootEco and Addison Lee for green school project
ECO Award that is part of Earthwatch’s Green Earth Schools programme
Going further, a Partnership with Earthwatch Europe, SkootEco, the Royal Horticultural Society, and the Natural History Museum
Transformong Green Space for Mayflower Primary School in Poplar, Tower Hamlets, and St Monica’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Hackney,
School head comments, ‘Through this collaboration, we are empowering children and communities to embrace environmental stewardship early, helping build a greener future.”
SkootEco and Addison Lee for green school project
London-based same-day courier company Addison Lee, committed to sustainability and reducing environmental impact, is proud to share our transformative partnership with Earthwatch Europe, SkootEco, and the Royal Horticultural Society and Natural History Museum, through which we have created nature-rich spaces within two London primary schools.
This initiative, part of Earthwatch’s Green Earth Schools programme, directly aligns with Addison Lee’s mission to lead the courier sector in environmental responsibility. By leveraging our local presence and green ethos, we are supporting the creation of thriving green environments in urban school settings, fostering environmental leadership, scientific curiosity, and a lifelong connection to nature among children.
Together, Addison Lee and SkootEco have transformed Mayflower Primary School in Poplar, Tower Hamlets, and St Monica’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Hackney, turning underutilised school grounds into vibrant green spaces. These areas provide students with daily access to nature for learning and play, enhancing well-being and environmental awareness.
Mrs Amanda Ruthven, Headteacher at St Monica’s, said:
“We’re so grateful to Addison Lee for helping us create the Greener Schools space, which has given our students a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, inspiring curiosity, creativity and a lasting sense of responsibility for the environment.”
Patrick Gallagher, COO and chairman of the Addison Lee ESG committee, added:
“As a same-day courier business founded in London, we recognise our responsibility to minimise environmental impact while serving our communities. This partnership allows us to extend our commitment to sustainability beyond transport, making a tangible difference in local urban areas by helping children connect with nature. It’s crucial for businesses like ours to support green initiatives that benefit future generations.”
Dr Naomi M., Head of Operations at SkootEco, said:
“Creating green spaces in urban schools is vital for sustainability education. Through this collaboration with Addison Lee, we’re empowering children and communities to embrace environmental stewardship early, helping build a greener future.”
Addison Lee’s sustainability strategy is supported by our leadership team, including Kevin Valentine, Head of Delivery Services, who represents the company at the TFL LoCity Alternative Fuel Group to help drive a greener future for London’s transport and courier sector.
This initiative reflects Addison Lee’s courier-focused mission: London only has a future if it’s sustainable, and as a courier business serving the city for 50 years, we have a vital role to play. Our commitment to a zero-emissions capable fleet, helping customers meet their net zero goals, and supporting the communities in which we operate is what sets us apart. Our aim is to be London’s most trusted courier provider, delivering sustainable, safe, and reliable services for customers, drivers, partners, and employees.
Patrick Gallagher announced a new transformative partnership with Addison Lee and Earthwatch Europe to create nature-rich spaces within two London schools, with support from the Royal Horticultural Society Natural History Museum
Step change Award
Evri four-leg robot
A previous double brand winner in this category of step change for the express logistics sector. Step change first for Sundry, ten step change to order by midnight for Next day nationwide.
2025 Bringing a new level of accessibility at delivery by robot.
Bring step change to accessibility at door
The Future of Delivery Has Four Legs!
Say hello to robo dog
The high-tech hound, AI powered, set to revolutionise last mile
No dog bite at the door for this delivery
The Future of Delivery Has Four Legs!
This dog does not bite at door!
Say hello to Evri’s Robo-Dogs – the paw-sitively game-changing couriers bringing parcels straight to your door! With AI-powered navigation, obstacle-dodging skills, and a commitment to eco-friendly deliveries, these high-tech hounds are revolutionising the last mile. The film company Markettiers have been in Barnsley last week managing film and radio crews as they capture the first look at Evri's AI-powered robotic delivery dogs. Not only will residents be the first to trial the futuristic hounds this summer, but local school children will get to name the first parcel pooch too!
Launch of robotic delivery by Evri will be a UK industry first - Man’s best friend will be let off the lead to deliver paw in hand with Evri couriers later this year
You’d be forgiven for thinking yesterday’s robot dog announcement by Evri, the UK’s biggest dedicated parcel delivery company was an April Fool’s prank, but the business has revealed it wasn’t a barking mad joke and is pleased to confirm it will trial an autonomous robot delivery dog later this year. Last year, Evri celebrated fifty years of deliveries with a nostalgic look back at how delivery and consumer habits have evolved over the past five decades. As part of a report, consumers were asked what they thought the future of delivery would look like; only 16% of respondents thought that robots would eventually be delivering their parcels but for some of our consumers, they won’t have to wait long for this futuristic vision to be realised.
In a UK first, the robotic version of man’s best friend will work in partnership with a courier to deliver parcels in a trial set for summer 2025. There’s no need to keep this dog on a lead – with sophisticated automation, the four-legged robot dog will be able to hop in and out of the courier’s van as it makes its way to and from homes delivering parcels and taking some of the leg work out for the courier. Couriers always have and always will be the heart of our business. Robots will never replace them, but we are dedicated to finding new and innovative methods to support our couriers and increase the speed and convenience of the services we offer. In this next stage of innovation, we are thrilled to introduce both these robot delivery trials, which could provide increased flexibility and choice for consumers.
Marcus Hunter, Chief Technology Officer at Evri - The autonomous canine has been developed by RIVR, a Swiss global innovation leader in physical AI. In partnership with Evri, the focus of the trial is to gain insight into how the robot dogs can work with couriers to improve efficiency support with some of the more strenuous parts of the job.
The robot dog trial is just one of several robot trials Evri is conducting as it looks to the future of parcel delivery, with the goal of providing a helping paw to couriers and developing solutions that will complement its delivery offering alongside couriers. Operating out of Barnsley Business Innovation Centre, a small and light EV robot, developed by Delivers AI, will also soon be out daily delivering parcels with the support of the local courier. This summer, residents on a chosen streets in Barnsley will have the option to have all their parcels delivered by these robots for the three-month trial. Residents will have the option to sign up for the trial via a dedicated website. These robots can be deployed 24 hours a day, allowing for night-time deliveries for consumers on different schedules, or more on-demand services with designated time slots for consumers. The robots can also be used to support consumers who need more time to get to the door. Evri expects to uncover unexpected benefits as part of the trial. Additionally, Evri will be taking the robot into local schools to demonstrate its capabilities to young children and give them the chance to name the robot.
