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Posted on the 13th January 2025 in PHTM News
NORWICH CITY COUNCIL TIGHTENS TAXI LICENSING RULES FOLLOWING SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES
Norwich City Council is reviewing its taxi licensing policy to enhance passenger safety, particularly for children and vulnerable adults. The council is required to update its licensing policy for taxi firms every five years to ensure rules are kept up to date.
The move follows the conviction of Alexandru Tapurin, a former driver for ABC Taxis, who was jailed for sexually assaulting three women in Norwich over a short period. This incident has shaken public confidence in the city's taxi services.
The council's "extensive" policy review aims to strengthen public safety measures. Proposed changes include:
- Enhanced Background Checks: More rigorous checks on driver applications, including more frequent Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks (potentially every six months).
- Mandatory Training: Compulsory safeguarding and county lines training for all drivers.
- Improved Record-Keeping: Better record-keeping of passenger information and dispatch records.
- Strengthened Complaints Procedure: An improved complaints system with clear guidance for passengers on how to report issues.
The council will also prioritise consideration of previous convictions and any reported concerns when granting or renewing taxi driver licenses.
The proposed changes will be subject to public consultation in the coming months before they are implemented.
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