Review to start on wheelchair accessible taxis policy

The taxi industry and people with disabilities will have their say in a review of a policy which requires new vehicles being licenced in West Suffolk having wheelchair access.

The requirement for new vehicles to be wheelchair accessible is an existing policy that has been in place since 2019 in West Suffolk. But following representations from the taxi industry and users alike the council will be reviewing the policy.

Within the next month the council, will be engaging with people with disabilities, taxi owners and taxi businesses as well as representatives from all groups.

The review will look at national guidelines and the law as well as best practice elsewhere. It will also examine the challenges faced by the taxi industry and people with disabilities.

Details of the review will be released nearer the time and any changes to the policy will then go out to further public engagement.

During this time the Licensing Team are working with the trade on their applications on a case-by-case basis.

Andy Drummond, portfolio holder for Regulatory for West Suffolk Council, said: “As a council we want to ensure that all people in our communities are able to access services they need and ensuring that the taxis licenced for use in our area meet the needs of disabled people is essential. As a council, we are committed to supporting taxi drivers achieve high standards of service, ensuring our communities have confidence in the professionalism and integrity of the trade.

“We have announced we will be carrying out a review to ensure the service matches the needs of all taxi users and that people with disabilities are not discriminated against and can use taxis which are often crucial in helping them live independently. In helping shape this policy this review will look at the challenges faced on all sides, as well as the current law and guidance on disability discrimination as well as best practice.”