'Train to Taxi’ scheme launched

We are working with local taxi company Juj, based in Scunthorpe, to offer jobseekers a unique opportunity into employment.

The ‘Train to Taxi’ scheme launched this month, giving 10 people the chance to benefit from all of the necessary training to be awarded their badge and become a self-employed driver.

Requirements including an enhanced DBS, medical, liability insurance and safeguarding are included. All that is required of participants is to be over the age of 25, have a clean driving licence and a passion for the role.

Training will last a maximum of eight weeks and once in the role, cars will be provided. A commission of 45% can then be earned, with hours decided by them.

Kuljinder Juj, Director of Juj Taxis commented: “We set up over 15 years ago, so have a long standing reputation and history in this town. That’s why for us it was important to give back to the community.

“When I was approached by the Sparc project I thought it was a brilliant initiative as we are always looking to add more company drivers to our fleet.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming new employees and doing more projects like this with Ongo moving forward.”

Regina Dalmeida, Sparc Manager at Ongo said: “We noticed a huge shortage of taxi drivers in the area, so have created the scheme to offer a flexible route into sustainable employment.

“To receive all of your training, relevant paperwork and support to become self-employed is really unique and we’re very proud to be offering it. The job can work around other commitments and is a fantastic and life changing opportunity.

“To go through this yourself would cost around £350, so we expect interest to be extremely high. If you’re interested we would urge you to get in touch as soon as possible to secure your place.”

Along with Juj, other taxi companies are also in talks with our Sparc project, in the hope of offering even more roles going forward.

The Sparc project aims to help people sustain financial independence and offers opportunities for those who want to set up a business or become self-employed. More than 50 people have benefited from the project over last 12 months, with that number set to rise.

To check your eligibility for ‘Train to Taxi’, email regina.dalmeida@ongo.co.uk. To find out more about us, follow us on social media or check out our website.