Licensing reforms included in Government’s new VAWG strategy

In December 2025, the UK Government published its updated Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy, outlining measures to strengthen safety and protections for women and girls in public spaces. A key component of the strategy is a set of licensing reforms targeting areas identified as particularly vulnerable, including the transport sector and the night-time economy.

Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing

The Government plans to tackle inconsistencies in taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing standards across England. These variations were highlighted in Baroness Casey’s audit into child sexual exploitation, which noted that weaker local licensing regimes can create opportunities for predatory behaviour.

To address this, an amendment to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill will enable ministers to set national minimum standards. The reforms are expected to focus on:

• Passenger safety
• Accessibility for all users
• Uniform vetting and suitability criteria for drivers

By implementing consistent national standards, the Government aims to ensure all drivers meet the same safety and suitability requirements, regardless of the issuing local authority. This is intended to reduce risks of exploitation and increase public confidence in taxis and private hire services.

Sexual Entertainment Venue Licensing

The strategy also highlights potential reforms to the regulatory framework for Sexual Entertainment Venues (SEVs). Current legislation exempts some premises from requiring a licence, allowing sexual entertainment activities to occur without local authority oversight. This limits councils’ ability to enforce safety safeguards and protect vulnerable groups.

The Government has committed to a consultation process involving local communities, industry stakeholders, and survivors of sexual exploitation. The consultation will explore how to modernise the existing SEV licensing regime, ensuring:

• Comprehensive coverage of premises
• Safety protections for women and girls
• Clear guidance for local authorities and operators

What this means for operators

Operators in the taxi, private hire, and SEV sectors should monitor these reforms closely. Changes could introduce:

• Mandatory national licensing standards for drivers
• Stricter vetting and suitability checks
• Revised licensing requirements for sexual entertainment venues

Engaging with consultations and reviewing local policies early will help businesses remain compliant and support the Government’s objective of safer public spaces.