Driving for Better Business – new fleet safety focus update

Vehicle Safety and Vehicle Security

Driving is for the most people the most dangerous activity they can do.

Van and truck drivers are essential to our economy, but they also face a unique set of safety and security challenges. Not only do they have to worry about the usual road hazards, but they also have to be vigilant against theft and terrorism.

Did you know that over 12,950 vans were stolen in 2023?

And that’s not even counting the 34,000 thefts from inside vans. Thieves often target tools, packages, and personal belongings left in vans. Theft isn’t the only threat commercial vehicle drivers face. In recent years, there has been a growing number of terrorist attacks using vehicles as weapons. Commercial vehicles are particularly vulnerable to being used in this way.

So what can your drivers do to stay safe and secure?

Driving for Better Business in collaboration with the National Highways Commercial Vehicle Incident Prevention Team are providing free to access resources to help those who manage and employ drivers. Their Fleet Safety Focus Updates cover an important area every month. This month’s update focuses on Vehicle Safety and Vehicle Security

It includes a link to a file of useful resources for you to download and share with your drivers, including:

• An article to share with your drivers on Vehicle Safety and Security
• Short safety messages to send to your drivers on their devices
• Posters for your staff noticeboards
• Information sheets from our Van Driver Toolkit on Vehicle Safety and also on Vehicle Security

Access this month’s Fleet Safety Focus and watch the video here.

 

🏆  Enter the UK Fencing Industry Awards 2025!

The countdown is on! Entries for the UK Fencing Industry Awards 2025 close on 31st July – so now is the time to put your best projects, people, and products forward.

With 11 award categories, there’s a chance for every corner of the industry to shine:
🔹 Agricultural & Equine Contractor of the Year – Tornado Wire
🔹 Apprentice of the Year – Siddall & Hilton
🔹 Project of the Year – Zaun
🔹 Domestic Contractor of the Year – DuraPost
🔹 Gates & Barriers Award – Door & Hardware Federation
🔹 Highways & Railways Award 
🔹 Industrial Contractor of the Year – IAE
🔹 Security Award – Barkers
🔹 Sports & Education Award – Alexandra
🔹 Temporary & Hoarding Award – Safe Road
🔹 Supplier of the Year (New for 2025!) – Scanpole

This year, the awards will be held at the iconic Mercedes-Benz World on 13th November, featuring a champagne reception and bar (sponsored by First Fence), the thrilling F1 simulator experience (sponsored by FH Brundle), and an inspirational guest speaker (to be revealed soon!).

📌 Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the biggest event in the fencing industry calendar. Submit your entry before 31st July at: www.afiorg.uk

You’ve got to be in it to win it – enter today!

Best Practice Day Returns at FenceX 2025 – Book Your Free Ticket Today!

Following a sell-out spring event, the AFI & AFA Best Practice Day returns this autumn as a major feature of FenceX 2025, taking place on 15th October at NAEC Stoneleigh – and it’s completely free to attend as part of the main exhibition.

This practical, hands-on outdoor showcase will include live demonstrations from fencing professionals covering agricultural, domestic, and commercial techniques. Whether you’re there to learn, network or explore the latest innovations, the Best Practice Day delivers real value for contractors, suppliers, and decision-makers alike.

🎟️ Tickets are free and also include a complimentary bacon roll for those who pre-register at www.fencex.com.

🌿 Outdoor stand pitches are still available for exhibitors who’d like to demonstrate products or engage directly with Best Practice Day delegates and show visitors. It’s a great opportunity to stand out and connect with your audience in a dynamic, real-world environment.

Meanwhile, inside the exhibition hall, we’re delighted to announce that over 75% of stand space is now sold. The day will also feature:

💥 The largest-ever destruction testing schedule at a UK fencing show
⚙️ A dedicated Gate Automation Zone
🎤 Expert-led seminars and speaker sessions

If you’ve not yet booked your place – whether as a visitor or an exhibitor – now is the time!

📧 To enquire about outdoor exhibiting, contact fencex@theafi.co.uk
🎟️ Book free tickets now at www.fencex.com

🏡 AFI Members Can Now Join TrustMark – The UK Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme

We’re pleased to confirm that AFI is now an official TrustMark Scheme Provider – opening up new opportunities for our members who carry out domestic work. If you install fencing, gates or other related services in or around the home, you’re eligible to become TrustMark Registered through us – find out more here

Why Register with TrustMark?

TrustMark is the only UK Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for trades working in and around the home. As a TrustMark Registered Business, you can:

✅ Enhance your credibility with the TrustMark badge – a nationally recognised mark of quality
✅ Be seen by more customers through TrustMark’s ‘Find a Trader’ online directory, visited by over 500,000 people a year
✅ Access free tools like contracts, business resources and training
✅ Offer your customers greater protection – including Ombudsman-backed complaint resolution
✅ Tap into exclusive business offers, from tool hire and insurance to discounted fuel cards, website help and more

Becoming TrustMark Registered through AFI also demonstrates your commitment to the highest standards of workmanship, customer service and business integrity.

Set Yourself Apart

Your TrustMark Business Portal gives you the chance to showcase your work, manage customer enquiries, and appear in relevant local searches. It’s free to use – and a powerful marketing tool for your business.

🎥 Watch the Business Portal video
📱 Explore the free Home Improvement App
🔗 Download customer-friendly resources and guides

Ready to Register?

Simply email us at info@theafi.co.uk to let us know you’re interested. We’ll guide you through the registration process and help you make the most of your TrustMark status.

Let’s keep raising the bar in the fencing industry – together.