London Taxi Drivers have taken a huge toll due to Covid-19 and have been left frantic and  desperate for work. The Drivers Union states ‘fewer than 10% of 2000 drivers are currently on the road’ and that ‘8000 taxi drivers in the UK are in danger of becoming destitute’. Furthermore, the long hours of driving by themselves can have negative affects on mental health. Black cab drivers across the United Kingdom feel helpless and unprotected. 

 

Arash Hassanzadeh, a London black cab driver, shares his opinions on the pandemic affecting the trade. 

 

‘We are all working long hours and making practically nothing,’ Mr Hassanzadeh says. ‘A lot of us have families and homes and the Government is failing to protect us.’ 

 

Whilst some news reports have commented on the privilege London Taxi drivers receive, as they are self employed and have significant advantages when driving such as using the bus lane, not having to pay congestion charge and stopping where they please, Mr Hassanzadeh believes otherwise. 

 

‘All of us have studied hard for many years to get our licenses as London Taxi Drivers; the advantages that we receive are based off our hard work and what our job entails. We all deserve to be protected during these difficult times.’ 

 

Most taxi drivers are still going to work to support themselves and their families but are hopelessly waiting for more Government intervention. The Government introduced the 'Furlough Scheme’ where they pay for 80% of peoples wages, however, this money came in a one-lump sum after three months of missed work. The taxi trade is now suffering.