Request ID: FOI-0101-2223 Date published: 16 May 2022
You asked
In the year 2019, how many complaints on Twitter did TFL receive about official black cabs denying service to wheelchair users?
In the year 2020, how many complaints on Twitter did TFL receive about official black cabs denying service to wheelchair users?
In the year 2021, how many complaints on Twitter did TFL receive about official black cabs denying service to wheelchair users?
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-0101-2223
Thank you for your request received on 19 April 2022 asking for information about complaints made on Twitter that we have received about London taxi drivers refusing service to wheelchair users in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require.
Taxis and wheelchair-accessible private hire vehicles are a vital resource for mobility impaired people in London. Section 165 of the Equality Act 2010 obliges drivers of wheelchair-accessible taxis and private hire vehicles to carry wheelchair users and provide mobility assistance without additional charge. Non-compliant drivers are liable to prosecution and fines of up to £1,000. The driver's continued fitness to hold a licence may also be reviewed.
We have received five complaints on Twitter regarding black cabs denying service to wheelchair users, one in 2019 and 2020, and three in 2021. Please note that none of these complaints were about a specific incident but related to more general comments about customer’s overall experience.
If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for some reason, please feel free to contact me.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
