This is an official council news release. This kind of thing not unknown, obviously. But several interesting features, and kind of makes it sound like a local authority version of Uber/Veezus's recruitment 'hub', or whatever.
But it's basically the council promoting a gig economy model, in my opinion.
Note this authority comprises mainly mid-sized towns, the largest being Bridlington (population 35,000), Beverley (30,000) and Goole (20,000). I've never even heard of any of the smaller towns in the area
Campaign launched to attract more licensed drivers in the East Ridinghttps://www.eastriding.gov.uk/news/arti ... 10f1d3cba6East Riding of Yorkshire Council are encouraging local residents to consider becoming licensed private hire or taxi drivers.Along with most areas of the country, the East Riding needs to attract more drivers, as the industry has an ageing workforce, current drivers are getting older, and many have retired in recent times.
Although there is not a shortage of licensed drivers in the area at this stage, the council wants to act now to prevent a potential shortfall of drivers in the future.
Over the coming months, the council will issue case studies on its social media channels, showcasing different business models in the industry, giving residents an opportunity to see what they might be interested in and how challenging but rewarding the job can be.
Councillor Leo Hammond, Cabinet member for planning, communities and public protection, said : "We are taking prudent action now to prevent future problems. Licensed drivers perform an essential transport role across the East Riding, especially in rural areas or during the night time economy, and are vital for our communities to function. There is much more to being a licensed driver than you might think, and we hope that more people will want to consider taking this on, which will benefit both themselves and the areas they serve."
Councillor Hammond added: "Many people don't realise how many different business models are open to licensed drivers. You can work for yourself and choose your own days and hours, perhaps in addition to an existing job, or you can work for a company and enjoy the benefits that can bring.
"It can be very rewarding work - not only can you set your own schedule, but you could end up driving anywhere in the country, and meeting lots of different people. It's a very diverse and rewarding role.
"You can also drive an existing vehicle, get your own private hire vehicle, or even share a vehicle. There really are lots of ways in which you can make the role work for you, and turn it into a successful business opportunity."
For example, Mr F has been a licensed driver since 2018. He was drawn to the role by the flexibility of the working hours, and now enjoys interacting with customers. He felt he had transferable skills from his previous role in the adult care sector.
Mr F thinks the best bits of the job are the flexibility, and being able to make his own decisions on the type of work he does. He enjoys the longer journeys, such as airport runs.
He started working for a large private hire company, but last year started his own private hire company. With his wife, he now focuses on their passenger services home to schools contracts, and airport transportation.
Mr F has this advice : "You have to be organised and think carefully about the type of area you would like to work in. You should also buy the appropriate car from the start. I would recommend licensed driving as a great trade to work in."
Initially, all applicants meet with the council's licensing team, and are advised on how to proceed, depending on whether they would like to be self-employed or to work for a company.
To become a licensed driver, applicants would be subject to enhanced checks on their medical history, criminal history, driving history and their right to work in the UK. They also have a localised knowledge test, and safeguarding training.
To find out more, contact:
Taxi.hub@eastriding.gov.