Taxi drivers in Pembrokeshire are being offered free training in a bid to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation.

The training has been designed to raise awareness of safeguarding issues and assist taxi drivers to recognise when they are carrying passengers at risk and, importantly, how to report a concern.

The scheme is a joint initiative between the council’s safeguarding and licensing teams and Dyfed-Powys Police

Pat Davies, Pembrokeshire County Council’s cabinet member for licensing, said: “Taxi drivers play an important role in our community. Their service in Pembrokeshire is an invaluable part of the public transport services in our rural areas.

“They are also placed in a unique position every day because they engage with numerous people and witness different types of interactions.

“It is important that licensed drivers are given the knowledge, confidence and the tools for reporting any safeguarding concerns.”

Clr. Davies said that nationally discussions were underway to introduce mandatory safeguarding