A disabled Londoner recently shared his challenges with navigating the city’s transport system in a wheelchair, highlighting the decreasing availability of black cabs as a major obstacle. Dom Hyams, a 36-year-old digital marketing professional living in Purley, relies on black cabs to travel between his home in Croydon and his office in Holborn twice a week. However, he has noticed a significant decrease in the number of black taxis over the years, making it increasingly difficult for him to get around efficiently.
The Decline in Black Cabs Availability
According to Mr. Hyams, the number of black taxis in London has decreased from 22,200 in 2013 to 15,100 in 2023. This decline has made it challenging for him to hail a cab quickly, often resulting in long wait times that cause him to be late for appointments. As someone who relies on a powered wheelchair due to Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, Mr. Hyams finds black cabs to be a lifeline for accessible transportation. Private hire cars and ride-sharing services like Uber are often not suitable for his needs, leaving him with limited options for getting around the city.
The Impact on Accessibility and Independence
The reduction in black cabs availability has had a profound impact on Mr. Hyams and other disabled individuals in London. He expressed that the lack of accessible transportation options creates a sense of dependence and restricts freedom for many members of the disabled community. In the past, a black cab would be readily available to pick him up almost instantly, but the current situation requires him to plan his travels meticulously, leading to added stress and difficulty in maintaining his independence.
Challenges on Public Transport
In addition to facing accessibility issues with black cabs, Mr. Hyams has encountered challenges when using public transport in London. He shared an incident where he got stuck at Chalk Farm Tube station due to the lack of wheelchair-friendly exits. Furthermore, he has experienced difficulties on buses, including malfunctioning ramps and verbal abuse from drivers who questioned his right to travel in his wheelchair. These encounters highlight the ongoing struggles faced by disabled individuals when using public transportation in the city.
Efforts to Address Accessibility Concerns
Recognizing the importance of improving accessibility and inclusion in London’s transport network, various initiatives have been implemented to support disabled passengers. FREENOW UK has called on London Assembly members to address the decline in black cab availability and advocate for solutions to enhance accessibility. Transport for London (TfL) has allocated over £30 million in grants to help taxi drivers transition to cleaner vehicles, promoting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transport system.
TfL’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer, Alex Williams, emphasized the agency’s commitment to creating a more accessible and inclusive transport network. Despite progress in recent years, there is still work to be done to ensure that all passengers, including those with disabilities, have equal access to transportation services. Initiatives such as the London Taxicard scheme, which offers subsidized journeys for residents with mobility impairments, aim to provide additional support for individuals facing accessibility challenges.
Feedback from disabled customers is crucial in shaping the future of London’s transport system, driving improvements in accessibility, step-free access at stations, and disability training for frontline staff. By prioritizing the needs of all passengers, TfL aims to create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for everyone who relies on public transportation in the city.
In conclusion, the decreasing availability of black cabs in London presents a significant challenge for disabled individuals like Dom Hyams, impacting their ability to travel independently and access essential services. As efforts continue to improve accessibility and inclusion in the city’s transport network, it is essential to prioritize the needs of all passengers and address the barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from moving freely and safely throughout London.