Diabetes and PCV/HGV licence loss

I couldn't believe it when I read that article. To think we are all supposed to be following the same rules.
I am a coach driver and also hold a HGV licence and am now type 2. My fear at diagnosis was that I would lose my licences.
How come the foreigners coming into this country with their vehicles are deemed fit to drive on our roads but our insulin users are not? It's high time these inequalities were ironed out and we all read from the same rule book.
Maybe we should move abroad, get jobs and then do all the UK runs? :wink:
End of rant.
Good luck to all those fighting for their right to keep their licences....you have my backing and best wishes (I may be joining you one day).
Regards
Angie

Having been in touch with an employment law specialist. Anybody out there in a similar situation may want to take this info onboard. It would appear, employers only have to give you notice of termination of employment based on "Capabiliy" grounds. Where are our rights? No mention of help from Disability Discrimination Act or as its known now Equality Law. Surely this is in breech of our human rights? European drivers can come over here driving with same medical conditions. Whats good for the goose is good for the gander too?? Life goes on I suppose. Good luck all.

There is a new Consultation Document. Trawl down the link I have provided and you will see, "Assesment for proposals to amend Driving Licence Standards for Diabetics".

http://www.dft.gov.uk/dvla/consultations.aspx

THE CLOSING DATE FOR RESPONSES IS 28/04/2011

there was a bit information in 1 of the truck magazines that it has been passed by the goverment that insulin dependent patients can apply in october and could get there licence back if you pass all the tests and medicals so i asked vosa at the truckfest in edinburgh yesterday they didnt have an answer but were going to find out and contact me so heres hoping that things will now move on and get some of us diebetic drivers back on the road will post the reply from vosa as soon as i hear from them

Excellent news. Well posted. I thought this thread was a goner. Glad to hear it.

DVLA consults on relaxing diabetic driver ban



Chris Tindall

Friday 04 February 2011 16:35


The DVLA has finally published a consultation proposing to relax UK laws that would allow people treated for diabetes to become HGV drivers.

The consultation document has been made available just days after MP Charles Kennedy described the current regulations as "utterly inconsistent" with European rules.

Transport Minister Mike Penning says: "We have taken expert advice on the latest evidence on eyesight, epilepsy and diabetes and believe these proposals strike the right balance in allowing as many people as possible to drive, without compromising safety. We would welcome views from anyone affected by the changes and will consider all representations before setting out our final decisions."

The proposals include allowing anyone treated with insulin injections to control their diabetes to be considered for an HGV licence, providing strict medical monitoring is met.




HGV drivers who have lost their licences due to being diagnosed with the medical condition have spent almost 20 years fighting for the right to regain their Group 2 driving entitlement.

The consultation runs until 28 April and can be found on the DfT website

Things are looking better for us. Yippee!!

I had no problem with my type 2 keeping my HGV but the UK Civil Aviation Authority would not let me fly passenger planes although the US FAA were happy to issue Class 1 medical from HQ and after proof of BS control they were happy for my doctor to issue it as normal. It would seem the UK just think diabetes = scrapheap.

Having gone through the Mill with DVLA. It has taken me nearly 10 months. I have finally had my HGV 1 (c+e) and PSV driving licences reinstated. Its a long haul with DVLA. But worth it.

Congratulations!
So pleased for you.
Glad to hear there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Safe driving.
Regards
Angie

Thank you Angie.
Very long process, but jumped all the hurdles.
Regards.

Neil.

Have you still got a job after all that?
Best wishes
Angie

Hi Angie,
Unfortunatley my job went as did my final salary pension because of the then dim veiw of the DVLA and diabetes.
Looking at getting some work sorted soon though. Busy trawling the net for jobs! Something will come along no doubt.
Cheers.
Neil.

Neil,

What area do you live in? I bet you are nowhere near me else I may have been able to help.

Good luck
Angie

Hi Angie,
I live in Bromborough. Its near Chester. About 1/3 up The Wirral Peninsula.
It was a very busy area, pre recession, for HGV driving. However, it would seem its gone a bit dry. But I have only spent one day so for looking for HGV work. I will find something. I was driving class one petrol tankers for Shell for 15 years, until I was robbed of my licence. I feel very bitter about that, I am still the same person now as I was when I was diagnosed. But now I am ok to drive?
Where do you live Angie?
Cheers.
Neil.

Neil,

I live in Lincolnshire, out in the sticks!!
I drove coaches full time for ten years until I fell out with my bosses!! So 12 years ago I went self employed and now help a small local company out as and when they need help. In between I do some painting & decorating work with my Dad (who is really supposed to be retired now!!). I have a class 1 HGV too but have never earned any money with it over the years.

If you can cope with unsecured work why not try an agency for as and when work, or even go freelance? With both licences I'm sure you would get some work....just keep a close record of your tachos etc though as some companies worry that you could be fiddling your working hours.

Good luck with your search. Keep us posted.
Angie

Will do.
Cheers
Neil. :wink: