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FREENOW have welcomed the Government's call for councils to prioritise enhanced accessibility in taxis and private hire vehicles.
Mariusz Zabrocki, General Manager at FREENOW UK, applauded this move as a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible transport system.
Highlighting the accessibility features of black cabs, Zabrocki emphasised that all black cabs are wheelchair accessible and equipped with aids for vulnerable travellers. With FREENOW boasting a black cab fleet, he asserted that their fleet can be considered one of the most accessible, providing a lifeline for individuals who depend on taxis for their daily activities.
This comment comes in the wake of Government ministers urging councils to take action based on new guidance to enhance the accessibility of taxis and minicabs within their jurisdictions. Taxis and private hire vehicles fall under the regulation of local licensing authorities. The Government's updated guidance, published on 17 November, emphasises that councils must take steps against drivers who discriminate against people with disabilities and guide dog owners. This includes issuing fines and suspending licences when necessary.
Mariusz Zabrocki said: "The recent government announcement, urging councils to prioritise enhanced accessibility in taxis and private hire vehicles, marks a significant leap towards an even more inclusive transport system.
“All black cabs are wheelchair accessible and have many other aids for vulnerable travellers. With the largest black cab fleet in one single app, FREENOW’s fleet can be considered one of the most accessible, offering a lifeline for vulnerable individuals who depend on taxis to go about their daily lives.
"It is vital that we continue to advance this conversation and that we encourage collaboration between councils and the industry to ensure that an increasing number of cabs offer a safe and accessible alternative for all.”
Talking about the new DfT guidelines Roads Minister, Guy Opperman, said: “Disabled people rely on taxi and private hire vehicles services and it’s unacceptable for people to be unlawfully discriminated against when travelling.
“It’s vital these services cater for disabled people’s needs, and local authorities should take action now to ensure drivers and operators understand their duties so everyone can travel with confidence.“
