Supporting Driver Health – Not Just Talking About It

We talk a lot about driver welfare in this industry, but too often it’s just that: talk. Last night, we did something real.

Our team welcomed the Felixstowe Community First Responders into our truck stop, where they carried out our second free blood pressure checks and health chats for drivers. This wasn’t a corporate stunt or a branded van photo opportunity. This was real NHS-trained volunteers, using their evening to support real drivers.

One of our visiting drivers, Robbie, admitted he couldn’t even remember the last time he had his blood pressure checked. He left with his numbers, advice, and a bit of peace of mind. He wasn’t alone. Multiple drivers were seen, supported and signposted to further care where needed. This is how you catch things like high blood pressure early, before they become problems on the road or in life.

A Massive Thank You

CFR Blood Pressure Checks

Dean Wales, Mark Noble and Lyndon Hunt from the Felixstowe Community First Responders gave up their evening to be on site and check in with drivers face to face. No charge, no drama—just proper care.

Lou, from our team, stayed on to keep the shop open and made sure the volunteers were looked after with hot drinks and a warm welcome. That’s teamwork.

Real Problems Need Real Access

It’s well known that drivers, especially trampers, struggle to access GP services. Working hours, location, and job pressure make it almost impossible to keep regular appointments. Meanwhile, conditions like diabetes, prostate cancer, heart issues and stress-related illnesses are rising in this workforce.

We believe the industry has to step up—not with corporate posters or slogans, but by making healthcare accessible at the point of need. That means at the truck stop, at the depot, on shift—not just in theory.

Felixstowe Truck Stop Blood Pressure

Small Steps, Big Impact

The Beetles First Responders
As part of our wider commitment to driver wellbeing, we’ve also created mapped walking routes
from our stop to encourage better daily activity. It’s not about 10k runs; it’s about small, realistic actions that help drivers protect their health long term.

Please Share – So Others Follow

We’re proud of what happened here. But more importantly, we want to see it repeated across the UK. If you run a truck stop, service yard or depot, talk to your local First Responders. Make it easy. Provide the space. Put the kettle on.

And drivers, if you’re stopping with us soon, watch this space. We’ll be running more check-ins like this in future. Your health matters, and we’re not just saying it. We’re acting on it.

Thanks again to Dean, Mark, Lyndon, and Lou, with a mention to Andy Proctor
for setting this up, and to every driver who took time to get checked.