The Taxi Centre Helps Keep Seaside Tradition Alive For Disadvantaged Children
The Taxi Centre has helped keep two of Scotland’s best-loved community traditions on the road this summer, supporting both the Edinburgh and Glasgow Taxi Outings to give disadvantaged children and their families memorable days at the seaside.
From Edinburgh to Glasgow, the business played an active role in ensuring hundreds of children with additional support needs were able to enjoy a day out, after earlier concerns that this year’s events may not go ahead.
Colleagues from The Taxi Centre’s LEVC sales team, James Welsh and Jordan Walker, volunteered their time to take part in the convoys, transporting children with additional support needs and their families for a day of seaside fun.
The Taxi Centre’s LEVC TX was transformed with a jungle theme, complete with banana decals, while James dressed as a monkey to entertain passengers throughout the journey.
The outings form part of a long-standing tradition that has brought joy to generations of families, with hundreds of taxi drivers, operators and volunteers donating their time each year.
Following concerns that this year’s event could be cancelled, the determination of organisers and supporters ensured the convoy was able to take to the road once again.
Together, the Edinburgh and Glasgow outings highlight the scale and impact of the taxi trade’s community efforts, with both events drawing widespread backing from drivers, operators and local supporters.
The annual outings not only provide a rare opportunity for many families to enjoy a day away together but also showcase the important role the taxi trade plays within local communities, beyond its everyday transport services.
Stephen Porter, Branch Manager at The Taxi Centre, said: “The Taxi Outings are something we’ve supported for many years because they represent everything that is good about the taxi trade and the communities we serve.
“To see both Edinburgh and Glasgow events take place this year, despite the challenges earlier on, says a lot about the people involved. There’s a real determination to make sure these days happen for the children and their families.
“Seeing the convoy set off in Edinburgh and the reaction from the children and families is something that really stays with you. For many, it’s a rare chance to enjoy a special day out together and create memories that will last a lifetime. Being part of that is incredibly rewarding and something we’re very proud to do.
“There was genuine concern that the event might not happen this year, which made the determination from drivers, volunteers and organisers even more inspiring. The fact that the outing went ahead is a testament to the strength of the taxi community and its commitment to supporting disadvantaged children and families.”
Robert Forrester, Chief Executive of Vertu Motors plc, which owns The Taxi Centre, said: “I’m very pleased with the efforts of The Taxi Centre. These outings have been part of the taxi trade for decades and they show the positive impact the industry can have beyond its day-to-day role.
“Supporting both the Edinburgh and Glasgow outings this year shows the scale of that commitment. It’s about helping as many families as possible enjoy something special, and that collective effort makes a genuine difference.
“Supporting children with additional needs and their families in this way brings people together and creates moments that genuinely matter.
“As The Taxi Centre celebrates its 25th year, it is encouraging to see colleagues giving their time so willingly. It reflects a culture across the business of getting involved locally and backing initiatives that make a difference.”