A series of new tests and codes for
Richmondshire taxi drivers could be introduced next year as part of
plans to improve the service customers receive.
The District Council is conducting a review of
its hackney carriage and private hire scheme – a new draft policy
has been produced with drivers and customers asked to comment on it
by the end of the year.
It includes a series of changes:
- the introduction of a ‘knowledge test’ – covering law and
conditions and knowledge of the district
- the introduction of a customer care course – including sections
on vulnerable people, disability, professional etiquette, language,
equality and customer. The course would need to completed
within 12 months of gaining a licence
- after the initial medicals, medicals would take place every
five years until the age of 70 and annually thereafter – the
current age change is 65
- the introduction of a dress code
- the introduction of a code of conduct
- a taxi forum would be established – made up of representatives
from the trade, police, North Yorkshire County Council, disability
groups, the district council and users.
They are being asked to complete a survey by
December 31.
The draft policy can be viewed on www.richmondshire.gov.uk/licensing.
Copies are also available in council offices in Richmond, Leyburn,
Reeth, Hawes and Colburn. Copies of the survey
can also be obtained from these outlets.
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