US EditionTeenagers to drive trains due to concerns over labour shortages
- The UK government announced on 7 May 2025 that it will lower the minimum train driver age from 20 to 18 to address driver shortages.
- This decision follows concerns about a declining workforce, with 30% of drivers retiring by 2029 and frequent service disruptions due to shortages.
- A consultation last year showed strong industry support, and research confirmed that 18-year-olds can safely drive trains after one to two years of training.
- Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the government's decisive efforts to enhance rail services and create thousands of new job opportunities, focusing on stimulating economic growth and increasing youth employment.
- The new policy aims to reduce overtime reliance, increase diversity, encourage youth recruitment, and enhance rail service reliability in the long term.
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Teenagers to drive trains in Britain amid staff shortage concerns
Teenagers to drive trains in Britain amid staff shortage concerns - Eighteen-year-olds will soon be allowed to drive trains as the Government lowers the minimum age requirement from 20 due to concerns over labour shortages
·London, United Kingdom
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The IndependentReposted by 
The Independent (US)
The Independent (US)Government to lower minimum age for train drivers in desperate bid to cut shortages
The average age of a UK train driver is currently 48
·London, United Kingdom
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Leaning Left3Leaning Right4Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Right
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- 40% of the sources lean Right
40% Right
L 30%
C 30%
R 40%
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