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Gold Standard Taxi Campaign

South Ribble Gold Standard Taxi Driver Scheme

What is the Gold Standard scheme? 

Taxi gold standard 1

South Ribble Borough Council has introduced the Gold Standard Taxi Driver Scheme to highlight the high standards of our locally licensed drivers and to help keep passengers safe. 

The scheme gives residents and visitors confidence that when they travel in a South Ribble licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, they are choosing a safe and trusted service. 

Our mission 

We are committed to: 

  • ensuring every driver and vehicle is fully licensed and thoroughly checked 

  • helping passengers recognise Gold Standard vehicles through badges and signage 

  • encouraging passengers to report concerns and share feedback 

  • supporting and promoting high-quality, professional drivers

Why the scheme has been introduced 

Drivers can be licensed by one local authority and operate in another area. While this is lawful, it means that South Ribble Borough Council cannot regulate or enforce against drivers licensed elsewhere. 

The Gold Standard scheme helps passengers clearly identify drivers who are licensed and regulated by South Ribble, and who meet our local standards. 

What makes a South Ribble Gold Standard driver? 

Drivers licensed by South Ribble must meet strict requirements in line with national government guidance, including: 

  • enhanced DBS (criminal record) checks 

  • ongoing DBS update monitoring, reviewed every 6 months 

  • overseas criminal record checks where applicable 

  • group 2 medical assessments 

  • safeguarding knowledge testing (including child sexual and criminal exploitation) 

  • mandatory safeguarding training every 3 years 

  • HMRC compliance checks 

  • Local area knowledge assessments 

  • Completion of an in-house driver qualification 

These checks ensure drivers are safe, professional and suitable to carry passengers. 

Staying safe when using taxis 

Choosing a licensed vehicle helps protect you and gives you peace of mind. 

Using a licensed and regulated taxi means: 

  • your driver has been background checked 

  • the vehicle has been safety tested 

  • the driver is trained in safeguarding 

  • there is clear accountability if something goes wrong 

  • the vehicle is properly insured to carry passengers 

A note on out-of-area drivers 

Drivers can legally work across different areas. However, South Ribble Borough Council can only take action against drivers it licences directly. 

For reassurance, look for the Gold Standard badge and choose a South Ribble licensed vehicle. 

Look for the Gold Standard 

When using a taxi or private hire vehicle, look out for: 

  • gold Standard signage or badge 

  • south Ribble licence plates