IN a move to make life less stressful for disabled people using taxis, Middlesbrough Council has just held the first training course aimed at making operators more aware of their responsibilities.

Following a licence application for a wheelchair accessible hackney carriage, the council began a consultation process with various bodies, including the Hackney Carriage Association, Cleveland Disability Forum and private hire operators.

The council decided that licences would be granted but would be subject to conditions.

Suitable training for drivers was identified as crucial, and proprietors have been made aware that all drivers applying for licences would have to undergo disability awareness training before being it is granted.