LOCAL taxi companies are working with Kirklees Council to provide extra help for older people in the area.
Caring Cars is an agreement between Kirklees Council and local taxi companies which aims to promote safe and confident taxi travel so older people in Kirklees can get about with a basic level of support.
Passengers booking a taxi under the scheme can expect the driver to help them in and out of the taxi with any bags they may have.
Drivers will also wait until the passenger has entered their home safely before driving away.
Some companies may introduce schemes such as discounts for GP appointment journeys or off-peak pricing tariffs for older and vulnerable people.
A council spokesman said: “Using the scheme is easy. Just call any company on the list and tell them you want to book a taxi under the Caring Cars scheme.
“Better still, ask any of the taxi firms you would normally feel comfortable with if they are part of the Caring Cars scheme and book it in the usual way.”
Taxi companies registered with Caring Cars will ask passengers if they have difficulty with particular types of vehicle.
They will also provide an estimated cost of the journey upon request.
The driver will advise passengers about the planned route, expected time and cost and then wait until he or she has entered the property safely, before leaving.
Clr Molly Walton, Joint Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This scheme should enable older people to receive the help they need when using taxis and will enable them to choose the operators who will provide this extra service.”
At the moment, firms registered with the scheme are: Ex Service Taxis, St George’s Square (01484 421111), Salmon Cars, of Longwood (07949 094235) and Sayeed Vallie, of Dewsbury (07877 545437).
You can find out all details about taxi companies which are taking part in Caring Cars by going to:
www.kirklees.gov.uk/caringcars
