DCH maintains and manages more than 23,500 places to live across Devon and Cornwall, and it is the first social housing business in the region to achieve the accreditation.
Paul Ayris, fleet manager for DCH, said: “For DCH operating in a challenging geographical area throughout the South West it is important that we are using sustainable, safe and efficient van operations.
“We achieve this by ensuring that our frontline staff are supported while driving via our fleet management support team ARI. Telematics support our operations team while providing feedback on our drivers to help maintain driver safety and mitigate risk.
“We are proud to be awarded Van Excellence accreditation after a vigorous audit to ensure our fleet operation is above and beyond current transport and government requirements. It helps demonstrate to our customers and employees that we are a responsible and safe vehicle fleet operator.”
DCH was supported during its application by fleet management company ARI, itself a Van Excellence gold partner.
Jason Chamberlain, ARI’s sales and marketing director, said: “We’re proud to have supported DCH in achieving this highly sought-after accreditation and will continue to collaborate with the Freight Transport Association in its drive to raise standards across van fleets.”
The Freight Transport Association’s Van Excellence scheme is aimed at raising compliance levels across the sector by setting high standards and sharing best practice, professionalising the industry and moving away from the traditional ‘white van man’ image.