Council launch Christmas taxi safety campaign

The new "Stay safe this Christmas, call for a taxi" campaign encourages local residents to keep Fenland roads safe and support their local businesses by getting a taxi home after a night out.

Fenland District Council has worked with local taxi and private hire companies to put together a comprehensive list of licensed local drivers and private hire operators as well as their operating hours over the Christmas period.

Posters and flyers will be displayed in pubs and local businesses across Fenland and shared on social media to ensure that everyone has quick and easy access to this directory of local providers.

The directory itself can be accessed by scanning the QR code found on all campaign materials or by visiting the Fenland District Council website at: www.fenland.gov.uk/findataxi

Cllr Steve Count, the Council's portfolio holder for Licensing, said: "We all enjoy a drink with friends during the festive season, but it's important to do so safely. Drink driving kills and seriously injures thousands of people every year, so if you know someone has had too much to drink, be a good friend and accompany them to a taxi."

With increasing numbers of unlicensed and uninsured "lift services" being offered on social media, the Council is also keen to encourage the use of legitimate vehicles and drivers, both for the safety of passengers and for other road users.

Residents can make sure that they, their family and friends all get home safely by following these SAFETY tips next time they use a taxi or private hire vehicle:

• Share details of your journey and the vehicle you are in with someone you trust
• Ask the driver to show you their badge before they set off
• Find out which licensed taxis and private hire vehicles operate in your area and plan your journey accordingly
• Examine the vehicle before you get in - Is a license on display and does it look roadworthy?
• Trust your instincts - If you feel uncomfortable, tell the driver to stop so you can get out
• You can report any concerns to the police and the Fenland District Council Licensing Team

Anyone who suspects someone is acting as an unlicensed taxi driver is urged to contact the Council's Licensing team on 01354 654321 or email: licensing@fenland.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can report it online at: www.fenland.gov.uk/article/14395/Contact-the-Licensing-team

Article date: December 2022