This information was updated on Tuesday 4 August 2021

This guidance is frequently changing and being updated coronavirus information for the public.

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus. This briefing explains some of the steps you can take to reduce the risk of transmitting and contracting COVID-19. 

Think about asking about symptoms before a passenger is picked up. 

In line with current guidance people with a new persistent cough or high temperature should stay at home. If potential passengers have symptoms, direct them to NHS 111 and advise them not to make the journey.

Where possible, ask all passengers to sit in the back of your vehicle.

Keep your vehicle clean to reduce the impact of the virus

• Regularly clean surfaces, such as card payment devices, steering wheels, handbrake, door handles, with normal cleaning products. (At the beginning, middle and end of a shift as a minimum)
• Carry a box of tissues and use tissues to catch coughs and sneezes
• Dispose of used tissues in the bin as soon as possible
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water (you can keep a bottle of water and a bar of soap in your vehicle) or use a sanitizer gel - do this for at least 20 seconds. Sanitizer gel should be a minimum 60% alcohol.

Handwashing techniques

What to do if someone develops symptoms of COVID-19

• If you become unwell with the symptoms of COVID-19 you should go home and follow the stay at home guidance.
• If you need advice go online to NHS 111 (or call 111 if they don’t have internet access). In an emergency, call 999 if seriously ill or injured or life is at risk. Do not visit the GP, pharmacy, urgent care centre or a hospital.
• If a passenger is taken unwell with symptoms of COVID-19, you do not need to go home unless you develop symptoms. You should wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after any contact with someone who is unwell and clean your vehicle before the next passenger.

Latest advice

If you, or anyone in your household, are experiencing either

• a new continuous cough, OR
• a high temperature (of 37.8 degrees centigrade or higher) Then members of your household are now advised to stay at home (self-isolate) for 14 days from the onset of symptoms following the current advice. Individuals are encouraged to ask for help from others for their daily essentials.

Everyone should do what they can to stop coronavirus spreading

It is particularly important for people who:

• are 70 or over
• have a long-term condition
• are pregnant
• have a weakened immune system

For further information please see the NHS coronavirus advice pages.