Humberside Police launch taxi initiative to safeguard young people

Throughout December, detectives from Humberside Police are carrying out an engagement exercise in collaboration with Hull City Council and North East Lincolnshire Council. It aims to strengthen the safeguarding of young people who use taxi services across the region.

The program focuses on helping taxi drivers recognise and report signs of exploitation while highlighting the importance of partnership working to ensure every journey is safe.

Detective Inspector Tim Hudson, lead for Operation Makesafe said:

“It is vital we raise awareness of child criminal and sexual exploitation amongst key local businesses, as well as members of the public so they can learn what to look out for, spot the signs, and ultimately help safeguard young people.

“We want to give taxi drivers, and ultimately our communities, the confidence to report their concerns or suspicions to us, knowing that they will be taken seriously, and we will do everything we can to disrupt and deter potential exploiters; preventing young people from being exploited in the first place.

“This activity is not about catching businesses out, it’s about coming together to stop exploitation, especially because it is an extremely difficult crime to identify.

“Often happening behind closed doors, victims and suspects do not fit any particular stereotype. However, there are indicators and behaviours that members of the public, professionals, family members or friends might spot.

“A child who is being exploited might not recognise themselves as a victim. They might go missing from home or education, or be attending hotels, unfamiliar locations, or making unusual journeys that are not explained.

“Taxi drivers play a vital role in protecting vulnerable passengers who may be taking these journeys. If you have concerns during a booking, we ask that you refuse the fare and immediately call our non-emergency number 101 quoting Op Makesafe, and providing the following details:

• The nature of their concerns
• Description of child/ young person
• Time and location of the request
• Destination address

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