London cabbies enlisted in campaign against domestic violence

Black cabs in London have been enlisted in a campaign against domestic violence which aims to provide helpline information as part of a broader awareness-raising drive to stop the crime.

The year-long scheme, to be piloted in London initially, will include 325 cabs carrying the logo 'Domestic violence – together we can put an end to it' on tip-up seats, issuing black cab drivers with information cards, and offering all new cab drivers an awareness talk as part of their training.

Launching the collaboration with Transport for London's Public Carriage Office and the Transport and General Workers Union (cab section), Minister for Social Exclusion and Equality, Barbara Roche, said: "By the nature of their job, cab drivers may encounter women at risk. We're not asking them to become counsellors, but by using special taxi receipts or driving them to the nearest hospital or police station, they could be helping someone into a safer future.

"Research suggests that providing information to women experiencing domestic violence on where and how to access help, needs to be approached creatively. We need to weave it into their everyday lives."

Mrs Roche added: "The government is committed to tackling domestic violence. We want to reach more women living with domestic violence, to reduce their isolation, let them know they have options and help them build futures free from violence."

One-in-four people in London use a taxi at least once a month and there are almost two million taxi trips a week. It is estimated the campaign will reach around 26,000 cab drivers.

Piloted throughout London for one year, black cabs around the country may also join in the campaign, subject to evaluation.

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Gamble, from the National Crime Squad, said: "Two women a week die at the hands of a partner or ex-partner and the police receives a call from the public for assistance for domestic violence, every minute of every day.

"Black cab drivers can play an important role in helping women who are subject to this heinous crime. If necessary, they could use their extensive knowledge of the city to take her to the nearest hospital or police station."

Mayor of London Ken Livingstone said cabbies were in "an ideal position to be a source of vital information for women who may be at risk".

Earlier this month, the government announced £18 million for additional refuge spaces around the country.

(GMcG)