Equalities Act 2010
To assist customers who may require a wheelchair accessible taxi or private hire vehicle (those capable of carrying a passenger whilst in their wheelchair), we publish a list of those that we license.
Drivers of vehicles that appear on this list must undertake certain duties to assist wheelchair passengers. They must:
- carry the passenger while in their wheelchair;
- not make an additional charge for doing so;
- carry the wheelchair should the passenger choose to sit in a passenger seat;
- ensure that the passenger is carried in safety and reasonable comfort; and
- give the passenger such mobility assistance as is reasonably required, for example: -
- to enable the passenger to get into or out of the vehicle;
- to load the wheelchair into and out of the vehicle, if the passenger does not wish to remain in their wheelchair.
The Act also places duties on drivers to: -
- carry a passenger's guide, hearing or assistance dog, allowing the dog to remain with the passenger; and
- not make any additional charge for doing so.
If you believe a driver has failed in his duties to carry a disabled passenger and is not exempt from these duties (an exemption notice should appear in the vehicle), please contact the Council giving details of the operator and plate number if known.
Medical exemptions
Drivers can apply for an exemption on medical grounds or because their physical condition makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for them to comply with their duties.
For more information on the process, look at our medical exemption policy.
Application for medical exemption
If your application for a medical exemption is granted, you will be issued with an exemption certificate and a notice which must be displayed in the wheelchair accessible vehicle whilst you are driving.