People with mobility difficulties use taxis TWICE as much as those without mobility problems, new data reveals
Updated: Aug 20
Newly released data from the Department for Transport (DfT) reveals that individuals with mobility difficulties use taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) at TWICE the rate of those without such challenges.
The statistics, covering the period from 2007 to 2022, indicate a clear reliance on these services by those facing mobility issues. In 2022, the average number of trips taken by people with mobility difficulties stood at 17 per person per year, significantly higher than the 8 trips recorded for those without mobility challenges.
This marks a return to the trend observed prior to the pandemic. In 2021, the average had dropped to 10 trips per person with mobility difficulties, but the latest data shows a recovery to levels consistent with the long-term trend of 16 to 23 trips annually. The broader population also showed an increase, with trips rising from 6 to 8 per person per year in 2022, aligning once again with pre-pandemic patterns.
Taxis and PHVs accounted for 3% of all journeys made by those with mobility difficulties in 2022, compared to just 1% for those without. These proportions have remained largely unchanged since 2007, reflecting the consistent role that taxis and PHVs play in the daily lives of people with mobility challenges.
Why do those with mobility difficulties use taxis TWICE as much as those without mobility problems?
People with mobility difficulties rely more heavily on taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) for several key reasons.
Accessibility: Other public transport options, such as buses and trains, may not be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Even when accessible services are available, they might be less convenient, requiring more time and effort to use. Taxis, on the other hand, can offer door-to-door service, making them a more practical and comfortable choice.
Flexibility and Convenience: Taxis provide a level of flexibility that public transport often cannot. They allow individuals to travel at any time without needing to follow strict schedules. This is particularly important for those with mobility difficulties, who may have specific needs or appointments that require timely and direct travel.
Safety and Comfort: For those with mobility challenges, travelling in a private taxi can be safer and more comfortable than using other forms of public transport. Taxis offer a personalised service, where drivers can assist with boarding and alighting, and passengers can avoid crowded spaces, which can be challenging or uncomfortable for those with mobility issues.
Lack of Alternatives: In many areas, especially in rural or less urbanised regions, other public transport services might be limited or non-existent. For people with mobility difficulties, taxis may be the only viable option for getting around.
