Could taxi driver mentor programs help partly solve the recruitment crisis?
The Hackney Carriage industry is facing a growing recruitment crisis across the UK as the traditional word-of-mouth method for attracting new drivers is dwindling.
Once, many would enter the trade through family connections or personal recommendations, but in recent years, these routes have become less reliable, and recruitment has stalled. Licensing authorities across the UK are reporting a significant decline in new applicants, leading to concerns over the future viability of the industry.
One potential solution to the problem is the introduction of officially recognised taxi driver mentors. These mentors, experienced drivers approved by local licensing bodies, would actively promote the profession at job fairs, schools, and other community events. By speaking honestly about their experiences and the benefits of the job, they could offer a realistic and appealing perspective to potential recruits.
The idea is that drivers, who know the job inside out, are best placed to explain the ins and outs of the profession. They could talk about the flexibility it offers, the independence of being self-employed, and the important role taxi drivers play in their local communities. For many, the job provides a reliable and steady income, but it’s a career choice that has perhaps not been promoted as vigorously as others. Officially recognising these mentors could give them the credibility and backing needed to engage effectively with young people considering their career options.
However, relying solely on mentors is unlikely to resolve the recruitment shortfall. The rise of social media offers another avenue for recruitment, and the taxi industry has been slow to fully embrace it. Online platforms could provide a way to showcase the job’s benefits to a much wider audience. A strong social media campaign, combined with real-life mentorship from experienced drivers, could modernise the recruitment process and reach individuals who might never have considered the profession.
Yet, even with these efforts, it remains to be seen if enough can be done to attract younger generations into the trade. The industry faces competition from fast licensing app-based ride-hailing services. That said, promoting the industry through mentors could present a fresh way of engaging with potential drivers and offer a practical solution to the immediate recruitment problems.
As licensing authorities and local councils grapple with the new challenge, the success of these initiatives will be closely watched. If successful, taxi driver mentors may well hold the key to safeguarding the future of the Hackney carriage industry.
