JOIN YOUR LOCAL ASSOCIATION
ALONE, YOU’RE VULNERABLE BUT TOGETHER, YOU’RE PROTECTED
Article by Shaz Malik Chorley Taxi Association NPHTA Board Member
When you’re given a taxi badge it feels simple; get in, drive, earn. But the truth is far from simple. That badge comes with conditions, and those conditions change. Regulations are constantly shifting, and many drivers don’t even realise until it’s too late.
Imagine this: you’ve been driving for years, confident you’re doing everything right, but the rules have changed around you. You suddenly find yourself facing a licensing committee, being asked why you failed to comply. What evidence do you have that you understood your duties? What proof can you show that you kept up with the changes?
For most drivers, the answer is none.
This is why representation isn’t a luxury, it’s survival. Driving a taxi is not just about the road, it’s about rules, regulations and protecting your licence.
I’ve sat in sub-committee meetings where even the boldest, most outspoken drivers fell silent under pressure. Their confidence collapsed in front of decision-makers who hold their livelihood in their hands.
But when you’re a member of an association, you are not standing there alone. You have experience, guidance, and strength behind you.
In 2023, Shaz Malik was approached to help support the taxi trade in Chorley, Lancashire. From there, the Chorley Taxi Association was built, a structure with board members and team managers, dedicated to representing drivers and strengthening our trade.
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At the start, many doubted us. Some said: “What’s the point? Nothing will change.” But what we’ve achieved in just over two years has not previously been achieved in more than 25 years. We’ve represented drivers, influenced trade decisions and secured a voice at council meetings where the future of our industry is decided.
And make no mistake change is coming. Councils, government and regulators are moving the trade in new directions, from compliance
checks environmental policies and technology standards.
If we don’t organise, we risk having decisions made for us instead of with us. We need to be in a position where drivers have a voice, where we can influence the future of our livelihoods instead of being left behind.
If you don’t yet have a local association, then you can still join the NPHTA. And if you do have a local association, I strongly recommend joining the NPHTA alongside it.
Why? Because it keeps the trade united, gives clear direction, and ensures every association benefits from national backing. The NPHTA won’t run your association, but it will guide, support,
strengthen it. And every association will need that at some point.
Representation matters, at the local level and at the national level. Without it, your chance of success is limited. With it, you have protection, knowledge, and the power of unity. Don’t wait until you’re standing in front of a committee, wishing you had support. By then, it’s too late.
Join your local association. Support the NPHTA -
nphta.co.uk
Change is coming make sure you have a voice in shaping it.
NOVEMBER 2025 PHTM
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