05.02.09
Vulnerable children and adults put at unnecessary risk with loss of background checks says GMB
GMB today called on the Home Secretary to restore the stringent standards for the licensing of all new private hire (mini cab) drivers, Hackney Carriage and chauffeurs. GMB has learned that the need for the
'Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA) checks was removed by the Criminal Record Bureau in April 2008.
GMB, the union for professional drivers has written today to the Home Secretary seeking an explanation on why the Criminal Record Bureau has been allowed to waive the requirement for licensed mini cab drivers and chauffeurs to have their background checked.
Terence Flanagan, GMB Professional Driver Branch Secretary said, "In many cases these drivers will be booked by the Local Authority, School, Hospital or Care Home who will have a reasonable expectation that the driver's background will have been fully checked by the licensing authority involved. With an estimated 50,000 drivers in London alone and a Public Carriage Office (PCO) estimated turnover of 1,000 drivers per week, GMB believe that the restoration of the full POVA checks and stringent licensing conditions for all new driver applicants is the only way of ensuring the safety of the travelling public.
The POVA check gives the public peace of mind, especially the many parents and carers of the elderly who regularly use private hire drivers to transport their dependents unaccompanied. The withdrawal of this crucial check will undoubtedly harm the public image of drivers. The check is important in ensuring the public feel safe when they travel by private hire vehicles."