Agenda item

The Service Director Culture, Housing and Regulation will submit a report proposing a revision to the existing dual driver licence conditions in response to a recent Internal Audit Review of taxi and premises licensing.

The Service Director Culture, Housing and Regulation submitted a report proposing a revision to the existing dual driver licence conditions in response to a recent Internal Review of Taxi and premises licensing.

The Service had a number of robust policies and procedures to ensure that those licenced to drive vehicles were, and remained, ‘fit and proper’ persons to hold such a licence.  This ensured the continuing safety of the passengers and members of the public.  The Review, however, highlighted the absence of a programme of safeguarding training in order to ensure that licence holders, Members and Officers could recognise the signs of child sexual exploitation and be aware of how to report concerns.

In order to address these concerns, an effective programme of training had been established and was currently being delivered by Sheffield Futures, an independent charitable organisation forming part of a national working group that delivered CSE/Safeguarding training to drivers licenced with both Sheffield and Doncaster Councils.  The programme was well underway with the delivery of presentations to all new driver applicants and would be rolled out to all existing drivers from April with a priority being given to those who undertook Home to School contracts or who came into regular contact with the young or vulnerable adults on a regular basis.

It was proposed, therefore, that safeguarding training be introduced and made a mandatory requirement of licence conditions.

In the ensuing discussion reference was made to the following:

·         The action which could be taken if drivers refused to undertake safeguarding training.  It was noted, however, that the Trade had welcomed the introduction of such training

·         There was a discussion of the ways in which refresher training could be provided in the future.  This matter would be investigated further

·         In response to specific questioning, it was reported that the Interim Director Adult Social Care and Health was responsible for, and was ensuring appropriate training for those involved with Community Transport/Dial-a-Ride etc.   

·         It was noted that training would be provided for or be made available for  drivers, escorts and chaperones of any transport service provided by or commissioned by the Council

RESOLVED:-

(i)            That the report be noted; and

(ii)          That Driver Licence Conditions be amended to include a mandatory requirement that all drivers undertake safeguarding training.