Taxi trade rallies to keep cherished Scottish children’s outings on the road
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
The Taxi Centre joined drivers and volunteers across Edinburgh and Glasgow to help ensure two long-running community outings for disadvantaged children went ahead this summer.
The Taxi Centre has played a key role in supporting two of Scotland’s most established taxi industry community events, helping hundreds of children with additional support needs and their families enjoy a day at the seaside despite concerns earlier this year that the outings might not take place.
The business backed both the Edinburgh and Glasgow Taxi Outings, long-standing traditions that see taxi drivers, operators and volunteers donate their time and vehicles to provide memorable experiences for families who may otherwise struggle to enjoy a day away together.
Staff from The Taxi Centre’s LEVC sales team, James Welsh and Jordan Walker, volunteered to take part in the convoys, transporting children and their families to the coast as part of the celebrations. Their participation formed part of a wider industry effort involving hundreds of drivers and supporters across both cities.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, The Taxi Centre’s LEVC TX was decorated with a jungle theme featuring banana decals, while Welsh dressed as a monkey to entertain passengers throughout the journey. The themed vehicle joined the colourful convoy that has become a familiar sight during the annual outings.
The events faced uncertainty earlier in the year amid concerns that the outings could be cancelled. However, organisers, taxi drivers, operators and supporters worked together to ensure the traditions continued, allowing the convoys to take to the road once again.
The Edinburgh and Glasgow Taxi Outings remain among the most recognised examples of community engagement within the taxi sector. The events demonstrate how drivers and businesses across the trade continue to support local communities beyond their everyday transport responsibilities.
For many participating families, the outings provide a rare opportunity to spend quality time together away from daily challenges. The events have become an important fixture in the calendar, creating lasting memories for children while bringing together volunteers from across the taxi industry.
This year’s successful outings also highlighted the strength of support within Scotland’s taxi trade, with drivers, operators, suppliers and sponsors all contributing to ensure the events could continue for another year. Their efforts helped preserve a tradition that has brought enjoyment to generations of families across Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Stephen Porter, Branch Manager at The Taxi Centre, said: “The Taxi Outings are something we’ve supported for many years because they represent everything that is good about the taxi trade and the communities we serve.
“To see both Edinburgh and Glasgow events take place this year, despite the challenges earlier on, says a lot about the people involved. There’s a real determination to make sure these days happen for the children and their families.
“Seeing the convoy set off in Edinburgh and the reaction from the children and families is something that really stays with you. For many, it’s a rare chance to enjoy a special day out together and create memories that will last a lifetime. Being part of that is incredibly rewarding and something we’re very proud to do.
“There was genuine concern that the event might not happen this year, which made the determination from drivers, volunteers and organisers even more inspiring. The fact that the outing went ahead is a testament to the strength of the taxi community and its commitment to supporting disadvantaged children and families.”
Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu Motors plc, which owns The Taxi Centre, said: “I’m very pleased with the efforts of The Taxi Centre. These outings have been part of the taxi trade for decades and they show the positive impact the industry can have beyond its day-to-day role.
“Supporting both the Edinburgh and Glasgow outings this year shows the scale of that commitment. It’s about helping as many families as possible enjoy something special, and that collective effort makes a genuine difference.
“Supporting children with additional needs and their families in this way brings people together and creates moments that genuinely matter.
“As The Taxi Centre celebrates its 25th year, it is encouraging to see colleagues giving their time so willingly. It reflects a culture across the business of getting involved locally and backing initiatives that make a difference.”
