Tough action called for after East Renfrewshire cabbies discovered charging extra for wheelchair use

Tough action has been called for after it emerged that some cab drivers in East Renfrewshire have been charging extra for wheelchair users.

Campaigners have said that in some cases passengers who need to use wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) have been charged over 50 per cent more than the metered fare.

Charging disabled members of the community a premium to use a WAV is in direct contravention of the Equalities Act 2010 and therefore an offence.

The Equalities Act replaced the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, bringing in additional protection not covered in previous legislation.

Councillor Caroline Bamforth told the Barrhead News that a taxi company in the area had been contacted by officers from East Renfrewshire council and a resolution was reached.

A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire Council stated that they will investigate all reports and take action if needed 

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