Driver survey reveals just how taxi and private hire work impacts both physical and mental health
Taxi and private hire drivers keep the country moving, yet their own health is often overlooked. A new industry-wide survey of nearly 1,500 drivers across the UK reveals the real toll of the job on physical and mental well-being.
Most drivers spend around 45 hours a week behind the wheel, covering an average of 35,000 miles a year. This sedentary lifestyle contributes to a range of health concerns. While 37.3% of drivers rated their physical health as very good to excellent, a significant 40% believed their job negatively affected their health.
Extended sitting, stress from dealing with unpredictable passengers, and exposure to pollution all contribute to long-term risks, including obesity, heart disease, and musculoskeletal issues. Despite this, 40.6% of drivers felt their job had no impact on their physical health, suggesting many are unaware of the cumulative effects of prolonged driving.
The survey highlights a concerning picture of mental health within the industry. More than half (54.2%) of respondents believe the sector is experiencing a mental health crisis. Financial pressures, passenger behaviour, and job uncertainty all contribute to stress and anxiety.
While 44.5% said their job had no impact on their mental health, a quarter (25.8%) admitted that it negatively affected them. Interestingly, 28.6% felt their work improved their mental well-being, citing job flexibility and independence as positives.
However, seeking support remains a barrier. Although nearly two-thirds of drivers (61.5%) felt their licensing authority was supportive, 44% said they were unlikely to seek professional help if they were struggling. This reluctance reflects a wider issue in men’s mental health, given that 93.6% of taxi and private hire drivers are male.
The risks of working in the industry extend beyond physical and mental health concerns. Over half of drivers (52.8%) have been verbally abused by passengers, while 40.9% have faced physical violence. Racist abuse was also common, with 40.5% of drivers reporting such incidents. For ethnic minority drivers, this figure rises to 51.1%.
Alcohol and drug use among passengers exacerbates the problem, with 46.3% of drivers experiencing passengers vomiting in their vehicles and 28.4% witnessing drug use.
Despite these challenges, most drivers still see value in their work. Many feel ignored by decision-makers, particularly when it comes to safeguarding concerns and working conditions. The survey’s findings highlight the need for better industry support, from mental health resources to increased protection from passenger abuse.
The National Taxi and Private Hire Driver Survey 2024/25 was conducted by TaxiPlus, in collaboration with TaxiPoint. The survey gathered responses from nearly 1,500 licensed taxi and private hire drivers across the UK to provide insight into the challenges facing the industry, including health, safety, and working conditions.
