Feature Transport in focus Get on the right road with Usdaw Usdaw has more than 20,000 members in the transport sector and offers a comprehensive service to all drivers from dotcom to LGV GV driver and active rep Eamonn Abbott is aiming to get more members to sign up to the road transport distress fund. The 55 year-old, who works for DHL on the NISA contract, at Harlow in Essex, has a wealth of experience in the sector. He has spent nine years in his current job and before that was a transport manager and prior to that he was a ramp manager at Stanstead airport. “We have to promote the distress fund much more,” he said. “Many members don’t know about it and those that do think it’s just for LGV drivers. It’s not, it’s for anyone who drives for a living – whether that’s an articulated lorry, a dotcom vehicle, a white van or even if you a drive a company car. “For a fiver a year members can get protection from fines incurred while driving as part of their job. For me it makes perfect sense. I encourage all of my drivers to sign up.” Eamonn has witnessed the rapid changes in the sector over L 32 arena the years. “The industry is evolving all the time,” he said. “When consumer habits change so does the sector. We’ve seen the growth of internet sales, more local shopping and collection, and just-in-time scheduling. “When you add in the cost of fuel, increased regulation, the growth in traffic and the influx of overseas drivers, you can get some idea of the transformation.” Eamonn’s busy schedule also sees him combine his role with being a rep, looking after more than 200 members on site – a mixture of drivers, warehouse staff and agency workers. “There’s plenty going on. From sorting out accident reports – thankfully usually minor reversing incidents – to scheduling issues for the drivers to picking rates and attendance problems for the warehouse staff. “It’s a busy time but I enjoy it. I’m passionate about fairness and consistency in the workplace and I think my experience and Usdaw training give me a solid grounding on how to solve problems and represent members.” as bott h driving nn Ab rs Eamo t nine yea lorry spen ticulated an ar