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<p>It is vital that taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) services are accessible to
passengers wishing to use them, which is why, in April 2017, we commenced the outstanding
provisions of S165 and 167 of the Equality Act 2010, requiring drivers of designated
vehicles to provide wheelchair users with appropriate assistance and refrain from
charging them extra.</p><p> </p><p>The law applies to drivers only where their vehicle
has been designated as wheelchair accessible by the local licensing authority. We
are encouraged that around a third of authorities have or are planning to designate
vehicles, but believe that every authority should take this important step to protect
wheelchair users travelling in their area.</p><p> </p><p>We have provided authorities
with guidance to support their implementation of the new requirements, and have reminded
them in writing of their role in eliminating discrimination against disabled taxi
and PHV passengers. We will continue to remind authorities of their responsibilities
so that wheelchair users and other disabled people can travel, free from the fear
of discrimination.</p>
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