Supporting Deaf Drivers: Making PCO Licensing Accessible with Transport for London & InSignLanguage

Deaf people have relied on their Private Hire Driver (PCO) licence to earn a living in London. But a recent update to Transport for London’s (TfL) licensing requirements created a crisis. Suddenly, over 1000* Deaf drivers were struggling to renew their licences because the new regulations were written in complex, industry-specific English that was inaccessible to many. With licences expiring and jobs on the line, InSignLanguage recognised the need for a rapid solution. *

The challenge was immense. The new SERU (Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding) test content had to be simplified, translated into British Sign Language (BSL), and delivered to drivers immediately to prevent them from losing their livelihoods. This was a critical issue, identified by InSignLanguage. The updates to licensing requirements had not considered the impact on Deaf drivers, meaning licences were expiring, and drivers could not continue working.

A Tailored Solution for a Time Sensitive Obstacle InSignLanguage, a company with a comprehensive understanding of the transportation sector and knowledge of Deaf Inclusion, set the goal to create a quick and reliable way to re-educate the Deaf driver community.

InSignLanguage assembled a team that worked directly with TfL, Deaf drivers, and BSL translators. The process was a collaborative effort to ensure the training material was not only accurate but also truly helpful. The team, lead by Liz Hood, put a huge effort into the development of a preparatory course for the SERU test, focusing on:

• Simplified Industry-Specific English: Breaking down regulatory updates into clear, accessible language

• BSL Translation & Publication: Ensuring content was fully available in BSL for Deaf drivers and creating training content and materials in BSL that aligned with the new regulations.

• Live Translation Support: Providing real-time interpretation for exam preparation and at testing facilities and ensuring the course was culturally and linguistically relevant.

The team rapidly rolled out the new course to over 150+ Deaf private hire drivers across London, helping them meet the new requirements and secure their careers and prevent licence lapses. All the assessments undertaken were passed successfully with 100% BSL support provided for all the assessments which involved 2000+ translation hours.

The impact of this project goes beyond just passing a test. InSignLanguage’s efforts created a standardised process that will ensure future regulatory updates can be easily translated and distributed to drivers.

In addition to the educational materials, InSignLanguage equipped Deaf drivers with access to the ISL Video Relay service and thus, BSL interpreters at the touch of a button, removing a critical barrier between Deaf drivers and hearing passengers. This project demonstrates how industry expertise, going the extra mile, and innovative accessibility solutions can ensure that all members of the community can continue their careers without unnecessary barriers. Thanks to the efforts, Deaf drivers in London can now confidently navigate the SERU test and maintain their livelihoods. This initiative is a powerful example of how a commitment to inclusivity can keep an entire community moving forward.

*Transport for All & Inclusion London campaign materials