Moto Unveils ‘Cabversation’ Initiative to Enhance Well-being of HGV Drivers
In collaboration with Mind and SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health), and with the backing of the Road Haulage Association, Moto Hospitality has launched its “cabversation” initiative. Geared towards enhancing the mental well-being of HGV drivers, the campaign aims to prompt drivers to engage in conversations with one another during their breaks at Moto service stations.
Ken McMeikan, the CEO of Moto, expressed, “We take immense pride in teaming up with Mind and SAMH to introduce our cabversation campaign, addressing a critical concern that HGV drivers face daily on the UK’s roads. This campaign equips HGV drivers visiting our locations with the essential knowledge and means to connect with their peers while enjoying a restful break at Moto service areas.”
He added, “Meaningful moments of connection are pivotal in promoting improved mental health and overall well-being, providing drivers with the emotional support they require. We trust that our campaign will afford HGV drivers the opportunity to take a moment to connect and converse.”
To facilitate these interactions, Moto has set up 60 “talking benches” across the UK, providing drivers with a designated physical space to initiate a ‘cabversation’. The campaign is complemented by an online information center, digital displays at Moto service stations, and social media coverage under the hashtag #cabversation.
Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind, remarked, “We are appreciative of Moto Hospitality for their support, and we are eager to witness the impact of the cabversation campaign. Through this initiative, we aim to encourage HGV drivers, many of whom have voiced feelings of isolation while on the road, to engage with one another. This is significant, as connecting with others can enhance our mental well-being and foster a sense of belonging. This is particularly crucial given the profound impact the pandemic has had on the nation’s mental health, particularly for those of us grappling with existing mental health challenges, and the exacerbating cost-of-living crisis.”
Within the transport and storage sector, approximately 41 percent of health-related issues are attributed to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. In 2022, Moto Hospitality’s charitable arm, the Moto Foundation, initiated a five-year collaboration with Mind and SAMH to address this statistic. The goal of the partnership is to raise £1.25 million to fund support services for the one in four individuals who grapple with a mental health issue annually.
Billy Watson, CEO at SAMH, noted, “We recognise that times are challenging, and individuals in isolated roles often feel like they have to confront mental health challenges alone. This campaign aims to alter that for HGV drivers by creating opportunities to form connections and initiate meaningful conversations. Establishing connections with others can yield numerous benefits for our mental health and well-being, and I extend my gratitude to Moto Hospitality for aiding in this endeavour.”
