TfL reach out to taxi drivers who may be suffering from financial stress caused by the pandemic

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The capital's taxi and private hire licensing authority Transport for London (TfL) are reaching out to drivers who may be suffering from the mental stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A page has been set up to support the health and wellbeing of licensees, who are being encouraged to "feel empowered to seek medical health" if they think they need it.

TfL have said on the dedicated page: "We are aware that the current pandemic and the associated financial and social impacts are a source of considerable stress and concern to many.

"We have provided some resources that might be useful in addressing some coronavirus-specific issues."

More details on support made available from TfL can be found on their website.

The taxi and private hire trade has been one of the hardest hit since the outbreak of COVID-19. Local and nationwide lockdowns have significantly impacted the industry, leaving tens of thousands of cabbies unable to earn a living.

Many drivers have been left struggling to even cover the overheads of running a taxi, with some having no choice but to leave the trade and find alternative work.

A number of local authorities have stepped up to financially assist cabbies by way of making grants available. Such payment relief grants can range from anywhere between £100 to £2000, depending on the individual authorities.