Taxi-drivers have been have been trained to be aware about child sexual exploitation (CSE) and human trafficking.

The training was delivered to 452 drivers from every firm in Pendle.

Councillor David Clegg said, “Pendle Council strengthened its Taxi Licensing Policy last year and agreed to provide free training in a bid to help protect vulnerable children and adults.”

“We’ve asked Pendle taxi drivers to be extra eyes and ears and trained them on how to report issues which concern them.

“Understanding what they may encounter whilst working is essential to having a responsible taxi trade which operates for our community.”

Pendle Council teamed up with Nelson and Colne College’s Lancashire Adult Learning to deliver the safeguarding training between October 2016 and January 2017.

Councillor David Whipp said, “We want all taxi drivers to be able to spot vital signs which might show that a child, young adult or adult is at risk."

The training was attended by virtually all of Pendle’s taxi drivers.

The nine drivers who didn’t attend have had their licences suspended until they’ve attended the training.

Under Pendle’s new taxi policy, all drivers must also register with the Disclosure and Data Barring Service (DBS) to allow Pendle Council to check online for any convictions since their licence was granted.

Councillor Whipp added, “Pendle Council agreed these changes in policy to minimise the risk of child sexual exploitation in Pendle.

“The new policy is also designed to help safeguard anyone using a taxi, including the taxi drivers themselves.”