The Travel Connections team at Leeds Older People’s Forum is launching a new E-Learning module designed to support both new and existing taxi drivers in the Leeds area in better understanding how age, dementia, and disability can impact their passengers. The training will cover how small adjustments can significantly improve their customers’ confidence and comfort when using door-to-door transport.
As part of our research, I joined the Leeds Taxi Licensing Team training to gain first-hand experience of the learning requirements for drivers and insight into the role of a Taxi/Private Hire driver working in Leeds.
To set the scene, I took my seat at a desk and prepared to immerse myself in the learning modules that form an essential part of becoming a licensed Taxi or Private Hire driver in Leeds. Looking at the list of learning set out in front of me, I knew it was going to be an interesting day, and sitting at that table immediately took me back to those slightly dreaded school exam days!
There were 13 potential new drivers in the room, all of whom had already completed their advanced taxi driving test, along with assessments in English, local knowledge, satellite navigation usage, and local policies and bylaws. This is in addition to the “fit and proper” assessment, the first stage in starting a career as a taxi or private hire driver in Leeds. The training itself covered a wide range of topics, including local conditions, policies and bylaws, professional standards, safeguarding, equality and disability awareness.
Together, these stages are designed to ensure that the taxi and private hire trade in Leeds operates professionally, and that all licensed drivers meet the highest standards of safety, comfort and customer care.
Michael started the day by letting us know that he would be “picking on us all” to test our learning, and just like that, I was properly back at school! As we worked through each module, Michael made complex subject matter accessible by clearly highlighting the importance of passenger safety and responsibility. His humour helped put everyone at ease, but it quickly became clear that life as a taxi or private hire driver comes with significant responsibility and real-life challenges.
As we moved through the modules, it really brought home why this training matters so much and why I was there. At its heart, this work is about helping people.
Our research has shown that even simple changes in approach can make a big difference. Through our new eLearning module, we will feature people with lived experience, using role-play footage to demonstrate practical, helpful techniques that drivers can apply in everyday situations.
With the support of Leeds City Council Taxi & Private Hire Licensing, we are excited to be among the first cities nationwide to place a strong focus on Age and Disability Awareness training for taxi and private hire drivers.
Funding for this eLearning training has been provided by the Motability Foundation, supporting our wider Age & Dementia Friendly Taxi Project work. We are now seeking expressions of interest from organisations for this work. The full specification can be found by clicking the link below:
Please email tracy@opforum.org.uk with any questions or for more information.
Finally, I’d like to thank everyone at Leeds City Council Taxi Licensing for inviting me to take part in the day and for giving me the opportunity to experience first-hand the high-quality training provided to the drivers who help keep our city moving safely.
