I didn’t know whether to upload this on this Friday’s more prosaic post, or Thursday’s Whinge. But first: over the past decade, licence applications to undertake The Knowledge have plummeted by almost 95 per cent, and as only 30 per cent of applicants complete the intensive course, it’s hardly surprising that wheelchair accessible cabs are, at times, in very short supply.

Although demand for black cabs has seen a resurgence, the shortage of licensed drivers has put this safe and iconic mode of transport at risk.

Taxi-hailing app FREENOW aims to revitalise the black cab industry and address the declining number of licensed black cab drivers. It will fund 100 per cent of the application cost, tuition fees, exams and licensing, amounting to over £2,000 per driver over a minimum period of two years.

This will provide a unique opportunity for more than 20,000 London Public Hire Vehicle drivers on the FREENOW app to expand their careers. Through this subsidy, the company aims to encourage more individuals to pursue careers as black cab drivers, ensuring that this cherished mode of transportation remains a prevalent and convenient option for Londoners.

To make this initiative a reality, FREENOW has partnered with two renowned schools, Knowledge Point School and WizAnn, which will collaborate in hosting information sessions for interested Public Hire Vehicle drivers. These sessions will help drivers understand the requirements, benefits, and opportunities associated with obtaining a black cab licence.

Not surprisingly over 500 applications for the Knowledge of London funding subsidy after just one day.