This is more of a human interest-type story, from a trade perspective at least.
But the thread title majors on the licensing angle - taxi office proposes reducing the minimum age for a badge, council plays ball, and guess who gets the first badge as a consequence?
Also a bit of advertorial as well - recruitment and customer-facing.
But can't see it catching on, and probably more to do with the family thing here. I mean, if the trade can't attract 30- and 40-somethings, can't see too many teenagers queuing up. At least not as any kind of long-term career option.
Former Oasis Academy pupil becomes Swale's youngest taxi driver at 19 years old
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/sittingbou ... es-278321/
A 19-year-old has decided to hop on board his dad's business and become Swale's youngest cabbie.
It comes after Swale Borough Council lowered the minimum age for taxi driver applicants - previously set at 21 years old.
Image: Jack Childs/Kent Online
Jack Childs works for his dad Nick, who owns Let's Go Green Cabs in Sittingbourne.
The former Oasis Academy pupil wanted to help out the family business by getting behind the wheel after working at the office since April.
He said: "There's a massive shortage at the minute, so I thought I might as well just get it while I can.
"I think this is a great opportunity as it gives a chance to younger people, like myself, to get up and work."
Image: Jack Childs/Kent Online
The move came after Let's Go Green Cabs proposed the changes to the council's taxi licensing policy.
Cllr Cameron Beart (Con), who sits on the licensing committee, said: "Six weeks ago we considered a number of proposed changes to the policy following an extensive consultation with the local trade.
"One of the proposals put forward by Let's Go Green Cabs of Sittingbourne was to lower our minimum age for applicants which was previously set at 21 years old.
"I made a formal proposal to make the change and it was seconded by Cllr Mike Whiting and formally agreed by the committee.
"Fast forward six weeks and we already have the first ever driver in Swale to pass the test and get their Hackney carriage licence under the age of 21.
"A positive policy change put forward by the trade through consultation and implemented by the council.
"Well done Jack."
Image: Jack Childs/Kent Online
The 19-year-old was said to be enjoying the job, and has already had some long rides to London City Airport and Canary Wharf in his Toyota Avensis.
He said customers had been nothing but friendly to him, and are often surprised by his young age.
Jack said: "I quite like being a people person, so as long as someone leaves my car with a smile on their face, I know I've done a good job.
"I just like helping people. In my case I am providing a service, and helping to get people where they need to be.
"I luckily haven't had any bother from customers, they are quite pleased with my job. But some people do get surprised when they see I'm quite young."
Image: Google/Kent Online
Jack added he could not be happier to be stepping up and supporting his father's business, which was founded in 2008.
He said: "I am very proud of myself and most of all to make my dad proud too.
"To be able to be the first 19-year-old to get a taxi licence, learning the basics of running a business, and sort of stepping up has put a massive smile on his face."
