October 30, 2006

Campaign under way for taxi scheme to help the disabled


vISIT tHE tAXI-mART sHOP

CAMPAIGNERS in Leeds are calling for a membership taxi scheme to help people with disabilities get around.
The Access Committee for Leeds, which campaigns for disabled rights, has met with transport chiefs in London to discuss the success of the capital's Taxi Card Scheme, which provides subsidised trips for disabled and older people who have difficulty using public transport.


There are 128,000 disabled people living in Leeds, according to the 2001 census, and there are many problems encountered by those who simply cannot get taxis or onto buses or trains.
Computer Cab is a scheme in London which is proving to be a success, and could soon be used in other towns and cities across the UK. Each member pays a fee and a nominal amount for each journey, and the rest would be subsidised by the council.
Needed
Adele Farquhar, 35, of Headingley, who uses a wheelchair and suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, said: "I do have trouble getting about. Taxis cost me so much for each journey, even just to nip out somewhere quickly.
"There are only three taxi firms in Leeds which are accessible for wheelchairs as far as I know. A scheme like this is really needed as it costs a fortune in taxi fares to go anywhere, even somewhere local."
Campaigner Tim McSharry, of the Access Committee for Leeds, said: "Currently there are only a few firms in Leeds which offer accessible transport to disabled people, even though they must by law."
Work is now being finalised for a submission and presentation to the Executive Board of Leeds City Council.

http://www.leedstoday.net/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=39&ArticleID=1848372

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