Herefordshire Council has adopt a new taxi policy, which includes a mandatory training element for new and existing drivers in relation to safeguarding issues.
Licence holders will be taught to spot potential indicators that should raise alarm bells, and the policy will offer taxi drivers the opportunity to share information "regarding issues surrounding child sexual exploitation, modern slavery and illicit trade practices".
Herefordshire Council has 1,050 licence holders, including Hackney Carriage Proprietors, Private Hire vehicle proprietors and Dual Driver and Operators.
The new training will be provided in conjunction with council Children’s Services, meaning that once a taxi licence is granted, the licence-holder will also be authorised to carry out county transport work on behalf of Herefordshire Council, such as transport to and from schools, and transporting social care clients.
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