DPD launches strategic review after death of courier

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DPD, is to carry out an extensive consultation with its depots and drivers as part of a strategic review after the death of one of its couriers, chief executive Dwain McDonald has confirmed.

The issue hit the headlines after the wife Don Lane, one of its couriers, spoke out about her husband’s death. Mr Lane had been fined for taking a day off to attend a medical appoints to treat his diabetes.

She told The Guardian that Mr Lane missed appointments with specialists “because he felt under pressure to cover his round and faced DPD’s £150 daily penalties if he did not find cover”.

The full statement from Dwain McDonald:

“We are all devastated by the news of Don Lane’s passing and our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.

“Don Lane was incorrectly charged £150 for not providing services, when in fact he was attending a hospital appointment. This was a mistake and we are profoundly sorry. No one should ever be made to feel like they are unable to attend appointments relating to their health.

“Like all companies, we need to learn from our mistakes. As a result, we are carrying out an extensive consultation with our depots and drivers as part of a strategic review of our arrangements. When we have completed the consultation and collected all the feedback, we will be making further announcements.

“In the meantime, I can confirm that no franchisee driver will be charged for attending healthcare appointments and I will be ensuring that this is the case.”