The public has been urged to grab its chance to help change disabled people’s lives for the better in Angus.
Arbroath East and Lunan Independent councillor Lois Speed said the current shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis needs to change.
She made an impassioned plea for people to get involved in a major consultation which will determine whether there is an unmet need for such vehicles.
Just 14 of 187 taxis or private hire vehicles in Angus are wheelchair accessible with what has been described as a “postcode lottery” of availability depending on where people live.
There are five accessible vehicles in the Montrose/Brechin area; six in Forfar/Kirriemuir; two in Arbroath/Carnoustie and just one covering Monifieth/Sidlaw.
Councillor Speed is a mother and carer for two adults who are power wheelchair users and has been a support worker and advocacy worker in Angus.
She said the severe lack of accessible taxis is failing disabled people.
“I really want to encourage Angus residents to take part in the consultation as the lack of accessible taxis in some areas has huge impact on wheelchair users,” she said.
“This impacts on day to day activities such as shopping and socialising, medical appointments and emergencies.
“Also wheelchair users are like others, some do like a drink and lack of accessible taxi at the end of the night can make going to a pub or a club difficult or impossible.
“That’s not to mention airport runs and travel for tourism visitors.
“Accessible transport helps promote inclusion, connectivity and can prevent social isolation.”
She said the Angus deficiency has resulted in disabled people missing hospital or doctor’s appointments.
Meanwhile, she added, not being able to access transport in the same way as others has a huge impact on how the individual with the disability and those who care for the person manage their day to day life.
“In some parts of Angus there is only one or none available and things need to change,” she said.
“Make no mistake, the public will have an opportunity through taking part in the consultation to make a real difference.
“Once the consultation ends it will then have to go back to committee.
“The outcome of the consultation will determine what action may be taken.”
The consultation will include users of wheelchair accessible vehicles, the taxi and private hire trade, groups and agencies involved in protecting and promoting the interests of users of wheelchair accessible vehicles, other agencies involved in the licensing of taxi and private hire vehicles and local bus companies.
The consultation ends on January 30 and people can get in touch online or through the Access line on 0345 2777778.
