Agenda Document Pack - Licensing Committee - 15/12/2025
Perth and Kinross Council · 15 December 2025
Back to Licensing Committee — 15 December 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Ambition | Compassion | Integrity Our vision is for a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality Council Building 2 High Street Perth PH1 5PH 08/12/2025 A hybrid meeting of the Licensing Committee will be held in the Council Chamber on Monday, 15 December 2025 at 09:30. If you have any queries please contact Committee Services on (01738) 475000 or email Committee@pkc.gov.uk. THOMAS GLEN Chief Executive Those attending the meeting are requested to ensure that all notifications are silent on their device and other devices are in silent mode. Please note that the meeting will be broadcast online and recorded. Members: Bailie Mike Williamson (Convener) Councillor Iain MacPherson (Vice-Convener) Councillor Keith Allan Councillor Hugh Anderson Councillor Bob Brawn Bailie Rhona Brock Councillor Steven Carr Councillor Michelle Frampton Councillor Neil Freshwater Councillor Ken Harvey Councillor Carol Mair Councillor Willie Robertson Councillor Alan Watt Page 1 of 38
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Licensing Committee Monday, 15 December 2025 AGENDA MEMBERS ARE REMINDED OF THEIR OBLIGATION TO DECLARE ANY FINANCIAL OR NON-FINANCIAL INTEREST WHICH THEY MAY HAVE IN ANY ITEM ON THIS AGENDA IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COUNCILLORS’ CODE OF CONDUCT. 1 WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3 NEW TAXI OPERATOR LICENCES - ALLOCATION SCHEME Report by Strategic Lead - Legal and Governance (copy herewith 25/357) 5 - 38 Page 3 of 38
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality Committee or Board: Licensing Committee Date of Meeting: 15 December 2025 Report Title: New taxi Operator Licences- Allocation Scheme Report Number: 25/357 Report Author: Sarah Rodger, Legal Manager Organisational Lead: Lisa Simpson, Strategic Lead – Legal and Governance 1. Purpose 1.1 This report seeks the Committee’s approval for a new scheme to allocate 24 additional Taxi Operator Licences in Perth, following the findings of the recent Unmet Demand Survey and subsequent public consultation. The report also proposes a policy change to ensure that any new taxi plates issued under this scheme are returned to the Council for reallocation if no longer wanted or used. The intention is to broaden access to Taxi Operator Licences and enhance accessibility for disabled passengers. 1.1 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendation(s) 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendation(s) It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Approves the allocation scheme for the 24 additional taxi operator licences as set out in this report at Appendix 1. 2.2 Approves the policy on non-transferability of new taxi plates, requiring surrender and reallocation via a waiting list as set out in Appendix 2. 3 Page 5 of 38
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2.3 Delegates authority to the Head of Legal & Governance Services to develop the necessary administrative procedures to implement the scheme and maintain the waiting list. 2.4 Agrees that the date of implementation for the Scheme and the Policy on Non- transferability shall be the date upon which the opportunity to apply for one of the additional 24 licences is first advertised. 3. Background/Context 3.1 The Council is responsible for regulating taxi and private hire car operators and drivers within Perth and Kinross, under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. The Act permits the Council to limit the number of taxi licences only where it is satisfied that there is no significant unmet demand for taxi services. 3.2 The LVSA Perth Taxi Unmet Demand Survey (Dec 2024), commissioned by the Council, concluded that there was indeed significant unmet demand for taxis in Perth, particularly at peak times and for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs). 3.3 Following the survey, a public consultation was conducted to gather stakeholder views on the options for addressing unmet demand and the types of vehicles to be prioritised. Whilst the majority expressed no preference regarding vehicle type, a third of respondents did express a preference for WAV and/or electric vehicles. 3.4 On 6 October 2025, the Licensing Committee considered recommendations to address the identified unmet demand (Report 25/260 refers) agreed to issue 24 additional taxi operator licences and officers were asked to develop criteria for allocation. The Committee also expressed a desire to ensure that these new licences are allocated in a way that improves the availability and resilience of taxi services by encouraging new entrants to the trade 4. Main Issues 4.1 The public consultation highlighted a tension between the views of the main operators within the trade and the independent evidence obtained through the survey. In striking a balance, Committee on 6 October 2025 agreed to an increase of 24 additional taxi operator licences. 4.2 It is important that the Allocation Scheme for the additional 24 licences directly addresses the nature and impact of the unmet demand evidenced within the area, but it also presents an opportunity to deliver greater socio-economic value. 4.3 The proposed Allocation Scheme therefore has been developed to ensure compliance with the statutory framework and aligned to the Council’s strategic priorities in relation to tackling inequality and growing the local economy. Page 6 of 38
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5. Proposals 5.1 In light of the above, it is proposed that the 24 additional taxi operator licences be allocated according to the following principles: • Improving accessibility for disabled passengers • Growing the local taxi trade • Fairness and transparency 5.2 Proposed Allocation Scheme 5.2.1 The proposed scheme (which is set out in full in Appendix 1) is designed to: • Improve accessibility for disabled passengers by providing that all new licences issued under this scheme will be subject to a condition that the licensed vehicle must be a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV). This requirement responds directly to the findings of the Unmet Demand Survey and the public consultation, both of which highlighted the need for improved accessibility for disabled passengers. • Grow the local taxi trade by giving priority to applicants who do not currently hold a taxi operator licence in Perth City, nor have a beneficial interest in any such licence. This approach is designed to improve the resilience and availability of taxis to the public by creating opportunities for a more diverse taxi trade. • Ensure fairness and transparency by inviting applications by a deadline which will be set as part of implementation of the scheme. All complete applications received by this deadline will be processed in strict date and time order and according to the priority criteria set out in Appendix 1. Each applicant may be granted only one licence in the first instance. If, after processing all eligible new entrants, licences remain unallocated, the scheme will allow for allocation to existing single-plate operators, and then to other eligible applicants, always on a one-licence- per-applicant basis per round. 5.2.2 To further support the objective of widening access, it is proposed that for all new taxi operator licences issued under this scheme will not be possible for a licence holder to, in effect, transfer the interest in their licence through either notifying the Council of a material change of circumstance to the licence or through application for variation. This means that, should a licence holder no longer wish to operate the licence, the plate must be surrendered to the Council. The Council will then reallocate the licence to the next eligible applicant on the waiting list. 5.2.3 This policy is consistent with the Council’s powers under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, which allows the licensing authority to regulate the issuing of licences and to attach such conditions as it considers appropriate. Limited exceptions may be made in exceptional cases such as death or incapacity. Page 7 of 38
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5.2.4 Existing licences granted prior to the implementation of this policy will not be affected and current procedures will continue to apply to those licences. 5.2.5 The proposed Policy Statement on Non-Transferability of New Taxi Plates is set out in full at Appendix 2. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The evidence from the Unmet Demand Survey and public consultation demonstrates a clear need for additional taxi capacity in Perth, particularly for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The proposed allocation scheme and accompanying policy on non-transferability represent a fair, transparent, and forward-looking approach to meeting this need. 6.2 By prioritising new entrants, the Council will open the trade to a wider range of operators, fostering diversity and resilience in the local market. 6.3 The mandatory requirement for wheelchair-accessible vehicles ensures that disabled passengers—who have historically faced barriers to reliable transport—will benefit directly from this expansion. 6.4 The non-transferability policy will safeguard these objectives over time, ensuring that licences remain available for use, in the public interest. Together, these measures strike an appropriate balance between legal compliance, public interest, and strategic priorities. 6.5 Approval of the recommendations will enable the Council to deliver a taxi service that is fair, inclusive, and fit for the future; adding greater socio- economic value to the communities that we serve. 7. Assessments 7.1 See Appendix 3 – Impact and Value Assessment 7.2 See Appendix 4 – Equality and Impact Fairness Assessment 8. Appendices 8.1 Appendix 1 – Allocation Scheme for Additional Taxi Operator Licences 8.2 Appendix 2 – Policy – Non-Transferability of New Taxi Operator Licences 8.3 Appendix 3 – Impact and Value Assessment 8.4 Appendix 4 – Equality and Impact Fairness Assessment Page 8 of 38
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Appendix 1 Allocation Scheme for Additional Taxi Operator Licences Purpose This Scheme is designed to ensure transparent, lawful and efficient allocation of the 24 additional Taxi Operator Licences and in doing so, adds additional socio- economic value in line with the Council’s strategic priorities. Principles Underpinning the Scheme Accessibility for Disabled Passengers All licences issued under this scheme will require the associated vehicle to be a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV). This condition addresses unmet demand identified in the 2024/25 survey and consultation. Growing the local taxi trade Priority will be given to applicants who do not currently hold a taxi operator licence or have any beneficial interest in one (for example, in partnership). This approach opens the trade to new operators, which diversifies the market, promoting resilience and availability of taxi services to the public. Fairness and Transparency An initial deadline will be set for applications under this scheme and applications received prior to that deadline will be processed strictly in date and time order and in line with the priority criteria set out in this Scheme. Each applicant will be limited to one licence in the first round to ensure equal opportunity and achieve the principles underpinning the scheme. Eligibility Applicants must meet all standard requirements for a taxi operator licence under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 and relevant Perth and Kinross licence eligibility criteria. In addition, the vehicle to be operated as a taxi must be: (1) Wheelchair accessible (2) No more than 12 years old; and (3) Compliant with current vehicle criteria. Prioritisation criteria To ensure that new entrants to the trade are given the greatest opportunity to participate, applications will be prioritised as follows: • First Priority (new entrants) Applicants who, at the time of consideration, do not currently hold a Perth City taxi operator licence and have no beneficial interest in any Perth City 3 Page 9 of 38
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taxi operator licence (including shareholding/control/partnership) - one licence per applicant. • Second Priority (single plate operators) Should any licences remain after all eligible new entrants have been considered, applications from existing operators who hold exactly one Perth City taxi operator licence (no more than one beneficial interest in a licence) - one additional licence per applicant. • Third priority (others) If licences are still available, applications from other eligible parties will be considered. One additional licence per applicant per round until all 24 licences are allocated. Application Deadline and Processing Application Deadline • The application deadline will be advertised to ensure all interested parties have the opportunity to apply. Application Processing • The application process will be advertised alongside the advertisement of the application deadline. • Applications will be accepted electronically and in hard copy, with clear instructions on what requirements need to be met for valid submission. • Support will be available for those who require assistance. • Completed applications accompanied by the requisite fee will be processed in order of date/time received. • Incomplete applications or those without the requisite fee will be considered invalid and will not be processed. • Eligible applications will be processed in strict date/time order in line with the prioritisation criteria set out below until all 24 new licences have been allocated. • The application process will allow time for the applicant to secure a suitable vehicle and complete any outstanding requirements. If the applicant is unable to meet these requirements within a defined period, the application will be treated as withdrawn and the opportunity will be offered to the next eligible applicant. • Once granted standard substitution rules apply in relation to the vehicle subject to the requirement that substitutions must be a WAV. The Policy on Non-Transferability of New Taxi Operator Licences also will apply. Page 10 of 38
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Waiting List Once all 24 licences have been allocated, a waiting list will be established and maintained in date and time order. This list will be used to reallocate licences that are surrendered or revoked, ensuring continuity and fairness. Ongoing Review The allocation scheme and waiting list will be reviewed annually to ensure continued fairness, transparency, and alignment with the Council’s strategic objectives. Those who do not provide information in a timely way in connection with such reviews may be removed from the waiting list. It should be noted that this scheme does not prevent any applicant from making an application for an operator licence under the Act even once the limit of 24 further licences is reached. In line with legal requirements, any such application will be considered in the normal way and referred to the Licensing Committee for determination. In considering such applications, the Licensing Committee will consider whether a ground of refusal applies and, as part of this, will have regard to all relevant matters including the unmet demand survey and any other evidence about demand which may be available at the time. Page 11 of 38
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Appendix 2 Policy Non-Transferability of New Taxi Operator Licences Policy Statement For all new taxi operator licences issued under the Allocation Scheme for Additional Taxi Operator Licences it will not be possible for a licence holder to, in effect, transfer the interest in their licence through either notifying the Council of a material change of circumstance to the licence or through application for variation. This means that, should a licence holder no longer wish to operate, the licence and related plates must be surrendered to the Council. The Council will then reallocate the surrendered licence to the next eligible applicant on the waiting list established under the allocation scheme. Rationale This policy is designed to promote fairness, transparency and wider access to the local taxi trade and to ensure that opportunities to enter the taxi trade remain open to new applicants. By requiring the surrender and reallocation of licences, the Council ensure that the benefits of increased accessibility and diversity in the taxi trade are sustained over time, improving the resilience of taxi services to the public. Legal Basis and Exceptions The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 empowers the licensing authority to regulate the issuing of taxi operator licences and to attach such conditions as it considers appropriate. The Council’s policy of non-transferability for new licences is a proportionate and evidence-based response to the findings of the Unmet Demand Survey and public consultation. This policy will apply to all licences issued under this scheme from the date of implementation. Limited exceptions may be considered in exceptional cases such as death or incapacity, subject to the Council’s approval. Licences granted prior to the implementation of this policy will not be affected and may continue to be operated in accordance with existing procedures. 3 Page 13 of 38
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IMPACT AND VALUE ASSESSMENT Report Title: New taxi Operator Licences- Allocation Scheme Where the Impact & Value Assessment has identified a likely impact in relation to the committee proposal, detailed evidence is provided below. STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS Corporate Plan Working in partnership with communities? - NO. Tackling poverty? - NO. Tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places? - NO. Developing as resilient, stronger and greener local economy? - YES. Enabling our children & young people to achieve their full potential? - NO. Protecting and caring for our most vulnerable people? - NO. Supporting and promoting physical and mental wellbeing? - NO. Legal and Governance Legal implications identified? - YES. The Report relates to the legislative framework for regulating taxis and ensures that implementation of the decision to increase the limit on taxi numbers by 24 additional taxi operator licences, is carried out in line with legal requirements. Governance implications identified? - NO. RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS Finance Financial implications identified? - NO. Workforce Workforce implications identified? - NO. Asset Management Asset Management implications identified? - NO. CONSULTATION AND COMMUNICATION Consultation Internal or external consultation? - YES. 3 Page 15 of 38
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External consultation undertaken. External consultation undertaken. Police Scotland, Public Transport Unit and disabled and older persons representative user-groups, taxi trade, the public and other users of taxi services, such as the hospitality industry. A public consultation was carried out via the Council's website from 28 April 2025 for seven weeks and then for a further five weeks from 23 July 2025. Communications Communications plan? - YES. This will be with the general public via social media communications. The taxi and private hire trade also will be made aware through normal channels of communication which are in place to engage with the taxi and private hire trade. POLICY CHECKLIST This report represents a new policy or a change to an existing policy document. Corporate Risk Assessment Corporate risk implications identified? - NO. Equality & Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Protected equality characteristics impact? - YES. Improved accessibility for disabled passengers by providing that all new licences issued under this scheme will be subject to a condition that the licensed vehicle must be a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV). This requirement responds directly to the findings of the Unmet Demand Survey and the public consultation, both of which highlighted the need for improved accessibility for disabled passengers. A full EFIA is required (based on likely impacts to protected equality characteristics) and will be undertaken before the report is implemented. Human Rights impact? - NO IMPACT. Inequalities of outcome caused by socio-economic disadvantage impact? - NO IMPACT. Inequalities of outcome in relation to Communities of Place or Communities of Interest impact? - POSITIVE IMPACT. Ensuring an adequate supply of wheelchair accessible taxis may have a positive impact on those with disabilities. These people are likely to be more reliant on taxis as they are less likely to have a car. A full EFIA has been undertaken (including details of likely impacts from inequalities of outcome in relation to Communities of Place or Communities of Interest) and is available from https://www.pkc.gov.uk/eqia A full EFIA is required (including details of likely impacts from inequalities of outcome in relation to Communities of Place or Communities of Interest) and will be undertaken before the report is implemented. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) This proposal does not qualify for SEA. Climate Change Impact Assessment Business, Industry & Supply Chain impact? - NO. Energy, Buildings & Infrastructure impact? - NO. Page 16 of 38
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Land Use & Land-Use Change impact? - NO. Transport & Connectivity impact? - YES. Improved accessibility for disabled passengers by providing that all new licences issued under this scheme will be subject to a condition that the licensed vehicle must be a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV). Improved accessibility for disabled passengers by providing that all new licences issued under this scheme will be subject to a condition that the licensed vehicle must be a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV). Waste & the Circular Economy impact? - NO. Climate Resilience & Engagement impact? - NO. Child Rights & Wellbeing Impact Assessment Impact based on the GIRFEC wellbeing indicators? - NO. Sustainable Procurement & Supply Impact Assessment Resource use and consumption impact? - NO. Social wellbeing impact? - NO. Environmental wellbeing impact? - NO. Economic wellbeing impact? - NO. Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) Impact related to personal data/information? - NO. Page 17 of 38
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Appendix 4 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form If the ‘policy or practice’ (see definition below) you are developing or going to develop is assessed as relevant after undertaking the online screening process (the Impact and Value Assessment (IVA)) - that is, it will have either a positive or negative impact on people - you should complete an Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) using this form. This form should only be completed if you have undertaken an Impact and Value Assessment (IVA) to screen whether a full Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment is required. Complete this for all relevant policies or practices: ● ‘relevant’ means it will have an impact on people ● ‘policy or practice’ - see definition below Definition of policy or practice for the purposes of EFIA: ● The term ‘policy or practice’ covers Service delivery and Employment. This can include a policy, a plan, a strategy, a project, a service review, a function, practice or service activity or a budget option. 3 Page 19 of 38
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2 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Name of policy or practice New taxi Operator Licences- Allocation Scheme Service and Division/Team Legal and Governance Services - Licensing Owner/Person responsible (include your name and position) Karen Engelberts, Licensing Manager Sarah Rodger, Legal Manager Impact Assessment Team (include your names and positions). This team can consist of two people or more as appropriate. As above Is the policy or practice being impact assessed new or existing? The Council is responsible for regulating taxis and taxi drivers. The Council ensures that those who operate and drive taxis are suitable to carry out that activity, from a public safety point of view. The Council can also refuse new vehicle licences if there is considered to be no unmet demand for taxis in Perth. There is an existing policy of having a limit on the number of taxis for Perth City. This is periodically reviewed, approximately every three years, to assess whether there is a significant demand for taxis which is unmet. This is done through a Survey of Unmet Demand which is commissioned from an external contractor. The Council then has to decide whether to accept those findings and if so, decide what action to take if there is a significant demand which is unmet. This assessment is being undertaken as part of the decision-making process following the most recent survey, undertaken in December 2024. That survey indicates that there is a significant unmet demand for taxis in Perth On 6 October 2025, the Licensing Committee considered recommendations to address the identified unmet demand (Report 25/260 refers) agreed to issue 24 additional taxi operator licences and officers were asked to develop criteria for allocation. What are the main aims of the policy or practice? This report seeks the Committee’s approval for a new scheme to allocate 24 additional Taxi Operator Licences in Perth. The intention is to broaden access to Taxi Operator Licences and enhance accessibility for disabled passengers. Who are the main target groups/beneficiaries? Section 1: Policy details (see definition of ‘policy or practice’ above) Page 20 of 38
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3 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC The general public who use taxis. Taxi operators and drivers also receive services from licensing in terms of the regulation of their activity as an operator or driver, but they are not users of taxi services unless as a member of the public. What are the intended outcomes of the policy or practice? To ensure that there is an adequate supply of taxis for the public and to ensure that accessibility for disabled passengers is be improved. Page 21 of 38
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4 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Key questions to address in the EFIA ● Does the policy or practice evidence that it has eliminated discrimination? ● Does the policy or practice evidence that it has advanced equality of opportunity? ● Does the policy or practice evidence that it will foster good relations between groups? The Assessment should highlight areas of interest covering the following: ● positive and negative impacts across all protected characteristics ● scale of the impact: an indication of the degree of potential impact, and whether this is judged to have a High, Medium or Low impact potential ● anticipated duration of the impact if relevant ● whether there is a specific differential impact to a particular protected characteristic or characteristics ● if the impact is more wide-ranging and general in its effect ● whether any impacts identified would/could be mitigated by an amendment to the policy, practice budget decision or service reform proposal Equality protected characteristic: Age Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Older people (65 years and over) X Section 2: Detail the positive and/or negative impacts, or tick to indicate no impact identified Page 22 of 38
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5 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Disability Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Physical disability Accessibility for disabled passengers will be improved by providing that all new licences issued under this scheme will be subject to a condition that the licensed vehicle must be a wheelchair- accessible vehicle (WAV). This requirement responds directly to the findings of the Unmet Demand Survey and the public consultation, both of which highlighted the need for improved accessibility for disabled passengers. Sensory impairment X Mental health X Learning disability X Neurodivergent conditions X Equality protected characteristic: Gender reassignment Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Male transitioning x Page 23 of 38
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6 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact to female Female transitioning to Male x Equality protected characteristic: Marriage/Civil partnership Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Women x Men x Same sex couple (male) x Same sex couple (female) x Page 24 of 38
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7 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Pregnancy/Maternity/Paternity Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Women x Men (paternity) x Equality protected characteristic: Race Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census x Equality protected characteristic: Religion/Belief Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census x Page 25 of 38
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8 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Sex Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Female x Male x Equality protected characteristic: Sexual orientation Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Lesbian x Gay x Bisexual x Other sexual orientation x Page 26 of 38
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9 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Socio-economic (fairness) Please refer to Appendix 2 of accompanying guidance Specific characteristics Positive impact (it could benefit the group concerned) Negative impact (it could disadvantage the group concerned) and any mitigation No impact Expanding access to the taxi trade may offer additional forms of employment and allow access to opportunities for those who would welcome flexible hours. For any policies or practice specific to young people under the age of 16 years, a separate Children’s Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment should be undertaken – view the National Guidance. Page 27 of 38
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10 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC As a result of this equality impact assessment, please clearly describe practical actions you plan to take to: ● reduce or remove any identified negative impact ● promote any positive impact or ● gather further information/evidence Equality protected characteristic: Age Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Older people (65 years and over) n/a Equality protected characteristic: Disability Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Physical disability Allocate licences under the new Scheme subject to a condition that the vehicle must be a WAV Licensing Manager Ongoing Sensory impairment n/a Mental health n/a Learning disability n/a Neurodivergent conditions n/a Section 3: Recommendations and actions Page 28 of 38
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11 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Gender reassignment Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Male transitioning to female n/a Female transitioning to male n/a Equality protected characteristic: Marriage/Civil partnership Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Women n/a Men n/a Same sex couple (male) n/a Same sex couple (female) n/a Equality protected characteristic: Pregnancy/Maternity/Paternity Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Women n/a Men (paternity) n/a Equality protected characteristic: Race Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census n/a Page 29 of 38
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12 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Religion/Belief Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census n/a Equality protected characteristic: Sex Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Female n/a Male n/a Equality protected characteristic: Sexual orientation Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion Lesbian n/a Gay n/a Bisexual n/a Other sexual orientation n/a Equality protected characteristic: Socio-economic (fairness) Please refer to Appendix 2 of accompanying guidance Specific characteristics Action Who is responsible Date for completion n/a Page 30 of 38
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13 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC You should list here the sources of information used to assess the impact of the relevant policy or practice. This can include local sources such as reports, information and data, relevant partners’ information, data and reports, other Council’s relevant information, data and reports, national information, research outcomes, data profiles and any other evidence which has led to the development of this policy. Information/evidence gained and used to shape this policy or practice List details, source and date (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Community consultation/engagement outcomes from individuals and organisations - this usually includes formally arranged contact with individuals, community groups, third sector and other relevant interest groups As part of the unmet demand survey, a range of consultation and engagement takes place through surveys: • public attitude survey • taxi trade survey • stakeholder engagement eg police, hospitality, • representatives of elderly and disabled user groups Further consultation was undertaken with the public (including the taxi trade) in relation to options to address unmet demand in particular an increase in 24 licences or to remove the limit completely, as well as regarding the type of vehicles that should be attached to these licences. Employee involvement/consultation feedback (for example survey, focus groups) Research and information list main sources Officer knowledge and experience Section 4: Evidence Page 31 of 38
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14 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Information/evidence gained and used to shape this policy or practice List details, source and date (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Equality monitoring data Service user feedback (including customer contact, services and complaints) See above – the survey of unmet demand included a public attitude survey. Partner feedback Other - this may be information gathered in another Council area, nationally or in partner organisations which is considered to have relevance Page 32 of 38
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15 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Consultation with key stakeholders must be undertaken throughout the EFIA process. This activity can also help to reach people not previously involved with these processes, but who will be affected by this policy or practice when it is implemented. You may wish to refer to the Council’s Consultation Guidance. The Consultation/Engagement process can also help identify or agree changes that need to be made to ensure the policy or practice will be inclusive on implementation and future practice. The Equalities Team Leader (email Equalities@pkc.gov.uk) may be able to provide advice relating to potential contact with consultees from equality protected characteristic groups via existing mechanisms such as the Community Equalities Advisory Group (CEAG) or Equalities Strategic Forum. A summary of the replies received from individuals and stakeholders consulted/involved. Include any previous feedback or complaints relating to equality and diversity issues and the policy or practice currently being assessed. Continue on a separate sheet(s) if necessary – please advise if this has been done. Equality protected characteristic: Age Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Older people (65 years and over) n/a Equality protected characteristic: Disability Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Physical disability This is set out in the Unmet Demand Survey. This feedback was considered and informed decision making about requirements which will be placed on new licences, such as wheelchair accessible vehicles. Sensory impairment n/a Section 5: Consultation/Engagement Page 33 of 38
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16 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Mental health n/a Learning disability n/a Neurodivergent conditions n/a Equality protected characteristic: Gender reassignment Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Male transitioning to female n/a Female transitioning to male n/a Equality protected characteristic: Marriage/Civil partnership Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Women n/a Men n/a Same sex couple (male) n/a Same sex couple (female) n/a Page 34 of 38
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17 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Pregnancy/Maternity/Paternity Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Women n/a Men (paternity) n/a Equality protected characteristic: Race Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census n/a Equality protected characteristic: Religion/Belief Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) View the list of categories used in Scotland's Census n/a Page 35 of 38
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18 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC Equality protected characteristic: Sex Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Female n/a Male n/a Equality protected characteristic: Sexual orientation Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Lesbian n/a Gay n/a Bisexual n/a Other sexual orientation n/a Equality protected characteristic: Socio-economic (fairness) Please refer to Appendix 2 of accompanying guidance Specific characteristics Date Outcome of consultation/engagement (continue on a separate sheet if necessary – please advise if this has been done) Socio-economic (fairness) n/a Page 36 of 38
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19 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC When the evidence has been considered in relation to the proposed policy, practice, project, service reform or budget option, it will be apparent what the likely impacts are. The type, scale, duration, and specificity of the likely impacts will inform the direction of the outcome of the EFIA. There are four potential outcomes as follows (highlight the one you are recommending as a result of your Impact Assessment): 1. No major change required the policy, practice, project, service reform or budget option is robust and can continue without amendment. 2. Continue the policy, practice, project, service reform or budget option. A justification is required for continuing despite the potential for adverse impact. 3. Adjust or amend the policy, practice, project, service reform or budget option. Remove barriers, make changes to better advance equality or remove or mitigate negative impact. 4. Stop, or remove the policy, practice project, service reform or budget option if adverse effects cannot be justified and cannot be mitigated. The following signatures are required: Lead Officer Responsible Signed Sarah Rodger Name Sarah Rodger Date Quality Assured by Perth and Kinross Council Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment trained officer (within service) Signed S. Rodger Name Sarah Rodger Date Section 6: Outcomes Section 7: Authorising the assessment Page 37 of 38
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20 Equality and Fairness Impact Assessment (EFIA) Form – 2024 PKC - PUBLIC The completed and authorised EFIA should be added to the relevant section on the Council website. Date action completed: Ensure your committee report to accompany this policy includes information about any actions taken to reduce or remove negative impacts identified, or include any positive impacts expected when the policy is implemented. Section 8: Publishing the assessment Section 9: Committee reporting Page 38 of 38