18 July 2016
Driver and Vehicle Standards (DVS) is introducing regular criminal record checks for taxi-cab drivers to increase the protection of safety for the public.
From 1 October 2016, all taxi-cab drivers will have to show they have completed an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check (formerly known as a CRB check) within the last three years and every three years thereafter. Previously, drivers had a standard DBS check when applying for their taxi-cab public service vehicle (PSV) drivers’ badge. The Inspector of Motor Traffic has the power to deny or revoke a licence.
This is the latest in the programme of improvements to the taxi-cab industry being introduced by Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Eddie Noel. In 2015, the Minister said that he'd introduce new rules regarding DBS checks as the improvement of public safety was a high priority in his plans. It's hoped DVS will eventually move to continuous monitoring of taxi-cab drivers where they will be notified of any status changes regarding elements of the DBS check.
A standard DBS disclosure provides information to third parties for people that are involved with working with the public including children or vulnerable adults. The standard disclosure contains details of all local recorded convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings. An enhanced DBS check involves an added level of inspection including Jersey Court Records, checks with the Police National Computer and relevant UK Departments.
Deputy Eddie Noel said “It is important that passengers in taxi-cabs have confidence in their drivers This is one of the measures we are using to increase that confidence. This will not only benefit the public but also the taxi-cab industry.”
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