A new private hire firm with an all wheelchair accessible taxi fleet has been created in North Tyneside by North East entrepreneur, Paul Irwin.
Mr Irwin who has 25 years experience in the transport sector said he hopes to make everyday life easier and more convenient for wheelchair users in the area.
Safety is Top Priority
After spending a lot of time researching and consulting with those who will benefit the most from the initiative, Access Cars was launched in early May with a clear view of its aims.
“We want our customers to feel safe and comfortable whilst travelling with us door to door.”
Developed customer service policies, a straight-forward booking process and safety for its customers are all top of the list for Mr Irwin and wheelchair users are now able to confidently call Access Cars and book a taxi without even mentioning that they require it to have wheelchair access.
Christopher David, Marketing Manager, said: “Our vehicles are all set up to help people with various accessibility needs. Standard with our cars are ramps and large sliding doors. In addition our drivers have all been trained in customer service skills as well as safe loading and unloading techniques.
“We want our customers to feel safe and comfortable whilst travelling with us door to door. Safety and comfort is 100% our top priority.”
BBC Patron Supports Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Only Firm
One supporter of the firm is Cbeebies, Kim Tserkezie, who stars in the children’s tv show Balamory.
Ms Tserkezie, said: “Accessible transport is vital to the independence of disabled people. We have increasingly active lives and many of us rely on taxi services to get to work and help get our kids to school.
“I consider safety paramount. It’s important that taxi providers listen to the personal needs of the customer.
“I welcome Access Cars’ commitment to consult fully with disabled customers in order to provide a service accessible to all. Access is much more than providing a ramp on board, it’s also about the attitude that goes with it.”
Access Cars’ urged customers to provide them with feedback to help them in further developing the service.