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Black cab decline sparks travel fears among 96% of young wheelchair users, new survey finds
Freenow by Lyft has partnered with Whizz Kidz to raise money for young wheelchair users through passenger donations made in its app.
Passengers can opt to round their fare up to the nearest pound before, during or after a journey. Freenow said 100% of the money collected will go directly to Whizz Kidz, supporting customised mobility equipment, specialist services and the charity’s accessibility advocacy.
The partnership follows a Whizz Kidz survey of young wheelchair users and their families which found that 96% of respondents were concerned that further declines in black cab numbers would make travel more difficult. The sample size and full methodology were not included in the information released alongside the announcement.
Current availability problems were already disrupting daily plans for 84% of respondents. Some 53% said they used black cabs because suitable alternative transport was unavailable.
The findings indicate that accessible taxi availability affects participation in work, education and social activities. Black cabs were used for social outings by 59% of respondents, education by 36%, and work and healthcare journeys by 29%.
Almost three-quarters, 73%, said being able to book through an app offering a guaranteed accessible fleet improved their travel experience. UK black cabs are purpose-built to accommodate wheelchair users and include ramps, securement points and larger passenger compartments.
Freenow operates black cab services in cities including London, Manchester and Edinburgh. The operator said it provides access to the largest black cab fleet available through a single app, although the announcement did not disclose the number of taxis currently registered on its platform.
The company also cited Transport for London (TfL)research indicating that disabled Londoners use taxis and private hire vehicles at almost twice the rate of non-disabled passengers. The figures add to industry concern about the effect a contracting licensed taxi fleet could have on passengers who cannot rely on other forms of transport.
A black cab carrying Freenow and Whizz Kidz branding will operate in London to promote the fundraising campaign and raise awareness of the transport barriers facing young wheelchair users.
Danny O’Gorman, UKI General Manager at Freenow by Lyft, said: “As the platform with the largest fleet of wheelchair-accessible black cabs, we are committed to championing accessibility every day. We have already delivered accessibility training for our drivers alongside Whizz Kidz, and are determined to lead the industry in setting higher standards across the transport sector.
“This new survey shows how critical fleet reliability is for young people. By encouraging passengers to round up their fares, we are enabling Whizz Kidz to continue their vital work while ensuring young wheelchair users can move around easily and on their own terms.”
Liz George, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Whizz Kidz, said access to transport was about “freedom, confidence and being able to take part in education, work and social opportunities without barriers”.
She added: “Funds raised will help more young wheelchair users access life-changing mobility equipment, specialist support and opportunities to build their independence, unlock their potential and live the lives they choose.”
Owen West, a Whizz Kidz Collective member and wheelchair user, said: “Being able to book black cabs on the app makes a huge difference. It means we can be spontaneous, hang out with friends, and just enjoy life without stressing about how we’re getting home.”
