London has a Taxicard systemthat provides subsidised door-to-door transport for people who have serious mobility impairment and difficulty in using public transport. Taxicard holders make journeys in licensed London taxis and private hire vehicles, and the subsidy applies directly to each trip.This Scheme is funded by participating London boroughs which includes Southwark Council. London Councils Transport and Environment Committee (TEC) manages the London Taxicard Scheme on their behalf with the Taxicard able to be used anytime, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

The Lib Dem London Assembly Leader Caroline Pidgeon has for some time been campaigning for improvements to the dial-a-ride scheme that together with Taxicard helps disabled people be more independent despite their disabilities. Frankly both schemes need to be fully reviewed and we’ve been calling for this for some time.

The London Councils TEC controlled by Labour and Conservative councillors is looking for drastic savings to the Taxicard scheme by implementing big reductions in the number of trips allowed, pricing rises, etc. These savings are being hastily implemented.  One aspect is a moratorium on new users joining the scheme. This seems outrageously unfair.

This seems doubly unfortunate considering the Taxicard system contract is up for renewal in 2011.

What is needed is a full review of the Taxicard and dial-a-ride schemes. IF a short term expedient is required to save money it needs to be done in a more considered less knee jerk manner. Such a review would then feed into the re contracting.

Less speed more haste to get a fare scheme at the right price is needed. As things stand borough will go their own way and we’ll see more of a post code lottery for this disability support.