Can someone help my son?

As the mother of a special needs son,who is residing in a residential care home. I am totally disgusted as to the lack of ramp wheelchair assisted taxis, within the South Shields area, and I am not alone by any means. Of all the taxi firms in the vicinity I have contacted,I receive a level of sympathy from the despatchers,but I am informed that there is a lack of these kind of taxis available.

I contacted the town hall licensing department with a query as to whether there was a requirement, however small percentage wise,for taxi firms to have wheelchair accessible taxis, to provide an avenue for less fortunate people like my son,to be able to travel to doctors/hospital and leisure facilities to enhance his quality of life. I was referred to CTS Traffic and Transportation,who are compiling a report to be presented to the councillors within the next few months, regarding hackney licenses.

However, the work is only advisory to the licensing committee,so they cannot promise to get anything done. I was told that working relationships developed between the licensing section, the taxi firms and users, are the most productive way to improve this sad affair which can at times prevent my son getting out and enjoying social activities. Can someone help?

Name and address supplied