High mileages are monitored and if there is a consistent pattern with drivers, this is examined to look for opportunities to reduce time spent on the road for both environmental and risk management grounds.

These initiatives are supported by an ongoing education campaign to help drivers and managers understand the benefits of efficient and economical driving, with regular tips and advice delivered to drivers by email.

Bolton adds: “We actively encourage our people to be part of the environmental projects and ask for their input.

"The general feed-back has been very positive and being supported by such a prominent organisation as the Energy Saving Trust gives credence to my suggested changes.”

Savings without compromise

Strong relationships with manufacturers and suppliers are a key part of Bolton’s environmental programme.

She works closely with suppliers, particularly manufacturers and leasing companies, to maximise efficiency gains on the fleet.

Bolton says: “This has brought about considerable savings to the company on monthly lease costs, fuel and National
Insurance, while employees have saved on taxation. This has all been without compromising safety or specification.”

The Renault Megane is the latest addition to the fleet, with CO2 emissions of 120g/km. Vehicles are also fitted with
satellite navigation in a bid to avoid wasted mileage and improve efficiency.

Ceuta Healthcare has been working with Renault for more than 15 years.

Bolton says: “Because of this long relationship, we can tell them what we want to achieve and they help with
information and arrange meetings to support us.”

‘Finger on the pulse’

In-house fleet management is important for businesses to be able to react to market changes, according to Bolton.

She says: “We do not outsource any of our fleet management. By keeping it in-house we like to ensure we get to know our drivers and can keep our finger on the pulse.”

The firm has developed an in-house risk control monitoring system which works on a points system to identify high risk drivers and whether intense one-to-one driver training is required.

The team also collates and monitors information on accidents, traffic and parking offences, licence details, low/high mileage and fuel use. As part of this system, it introduced licence checking direct with the DVLA.

Bolton adds: “We are constantly striving to continue to make improvements, to increase efficiency and reduce our carbon footprint, ensuring we keep the facilities department up-to-date and our people safe and well informed.”