CRIMINAL record checks for all of Worcester’s taxi drivers could become compulsory under plans being drawn up by city council chiefs.
A raft of changes to Worcester’s taxi policies are being considered in a bid to make passengers feel even safer when ‘hailing a cab’.
Among the measures being considered is to make it compulsory for drivers to do safeguarding training and to be registered with the national Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
DBS checks, previously known as CRB checks, see certificates issued to an individual to show employers they are recruiting suitable people as taxi drivers.
Even the most basic type of check will flag up recent criminal convictions, and will state the court, date and penalty imposed.
Older convictions for non-violent crimes, which are often considered ‘spent’ and forgotten about will not show on a basic DBS check, but may show on a more advanced check.
Council chiefs claim the DBS check would make it easier to stop criminals applying for a taxi licence, while the proposed mandatory safeguarding training would ensure drivers know how to report concerns about vulnerable people who they come into contact with through their work
Coun Allah Ditta, chair of the City Council’s Licensing and Environmental Health Committee, said: “The last 20 months have been difficult for our city’s taxi drivers and I want to thank them for continuing to operate through such a challenging time.
“These new rules are good news for them and their customers, helping passengers to feel safe and helping drivers to report their concerns if they spot vulnerable people who might be at risk of exploitation,” he added.
The City Council has drawn up the proposed changes to its Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy in response to new national guidance published by the Government.
“This is an important consultation which we are contacting operators and the trade about directly, and I hope as many residents and passengers as possible will also give us their views.
Customers, residents and taxi drivers can visit www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit by January 7 to air their views.
