Wolverhampton Taxis: Criminal Records & Safety Concerns

0:00On April 23rd in Wolverhampton, the UK's taxi licensing hotspot City Council handed out licenses to 438 drivers with criminal records last year. That includes 158 folks convicted of violent crimes, plus 61 for drugs, 36 for drink-related offenses, and even four for sexual ones. Out of over 42,000 total licenses issued, way more than Birmingham or Bradford, they're dominating the scene. These drivers, license there, can hop on apps like Uber and Bolt to work across other areas. Turns out 96% live outside the city, sparking big worries about passenger safety and uneven checks nationwide. Leaders are fired up. Greater Manchester's mayor called it shocking, highlighting how local bosses lack control over half the rides on their streets. Safety groups like the Susie Lamplett Trust have pushed for years for tougher, uniform background vetting, treating drivers like regulated pros. The Council insists they scrutinize every app against national rules, like waiting 10 years post-violence conviction, and reject thousands yearly.

1:06They only green light if their panel would trust the driver with their own family any time. Other cities like Birmingham start with refusals for serious offenses but couldn't share full conviction stats. Governments eyeing reforms to cut licensing bodies and limit cross-area gigs with Uber, Bolt, and Wolverhampton on board. This push aims to tighten safeguards so riders everywhere feel secure on the road.