UK vehicle hire company Northgate and FMG Repair Services managers are participating in a health and safety training programme including a mock trial to help risk management and leadership development across operations, according to Fleet News.

The initiative forms part of the Group's annual insurance risk improvement programme, with funding provided by insurance partners Howden and Allianz, to deliver three mock trials for Northgate's branch managers and general managers at FMG Repair Services.

Workplace safety remains a critical issue across Great Britain, with 124 people losing their lives in work-related accidents in 2024/25, and a further 680,000 non-fatal workplace injuries reported. The trial offers a hands-on experience that takes participants through the full lifecycle of a workplace incident from initial response to a live courtroom simulation.

Charlotte Tilstone, head of insurance at parent company Zigup, said: "Health and safety is a top priority for Northgate, and this immersive mock trial training allows our managers to experience the legal and operational implications of workplace incidents. By equipping our leaders with practical knowledge and confidence, we reinforce a culture of proactive risk management across all our operations."

The sessions, taking place in Birmingham, Manchester and London, are hosted by the Group's central insurance and health and safety departments in partnership with Howden, Allianz, and panel solicitors Clyde and Co. The training programme provides managers with practical understanding of legal proceedings and operational consequences following workplace incidents.

The mock trial format enables participants to understand regulatory frameworks, legal responsibilities and effective incident management protocols whilst experiencing courtroom procedures in a controlled training environment. The initiative aims to strengthen health and safety leadership capabilities across both organisations' operational networks.

Discover how mock trial training is enhancing workplace safety management at Northgate in the complete article.