Cabbies meet strict rules after scandal
ALL TAXI drivers in Rotherham must now meet a set of licensing guidelines to ensure a high-quality service, with those who fail to comply having their licences suspended by the council.
The aftermath of the town’s grooming scandal, in which it emerged that taxi drivers had been picking up children for sex from care homes and schools, has led to increasing efforts to regulate cab drivers.
Those granted a licence are expected to meet a range of criteria, including passing background checks, completing safeguarding training and using taxi cameras in their vehicles.
All drivers must also hold a BTEC or equivalent qualification – and that was the area where progress had been incomplete, though the council’s ruling cabinet has now been told that for the last two months, 100 per cent of the town’s cabbies have been meeting all four criteria.
Coun Emma Hoddinott told a meeting of Rotherham Council’s cabinet: “I think that is really positive.
“If they have not complied, they have been suspended.”
Earlier this year, there were 29 drivers with licences suspended, but now all have proved they have the BTEC qualification needed, the meeting was told.
Enforcement action to ensure taxis and private hire vehicles are operating correctly has leapt by 300 per cent recently following the appointment of new staff, resulting in an increase in action taken against cab operators.