Proposed policy and consultation

Current policies and feedback

We have reviewed our school travel policies and engaged with parents. Key feedback includes:

• the need for simpler, more independent, and sustainable travel options
• reduced travel times
• clearer communication on travel options
• and more choices like personal travel budgets and independent travel training

Proposed policy and consultation

The consultation allows for:

• planning for future demand in Cumberland
• reducing travel times and aligning with the SEND and Inclusion Strategy
• collaborating with providers to improve service logistics
• considering emission reductions in line with the green transport agenda
• engaging differently with stakeholders for service improvement

Existing travel commitments remain a priority in policy reviews. The statutory guidance for travel to school remains a key consideration.

School travel assistance policy changes

Key considerations and proposals

When reviewing policy changes, honoring existing travel commitments is crucial. According to statutory guidance, local authorities should phase in changes so that children who begin school under one set of travel arrangements continue to benefit from them until they leave that school.

The proposed policy amendments will only apply to new applications for home to school transport.

Parents may explore alternative approaches in the revised policy.

Post-16 travel assistance assessment criteria

When assessing eligibility for post-16 education travel assistance, we will consider:

• receipt and value of funding from the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund
• whether the desired sixth form or college is a local provision or if the course is unavailable locally
• if the sixth form unit is an extension of the previously attended school and named in the student's Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP)
• distance and journey time from home to the education or training establishment
• SEND or mobility difficulties impeding access to the educational placement
• safety concerns for SEND students traveling independently
• complexity of public transport routes to the suitable placement

Proposed policy changes

1. Unified policy for ages 0 to 25: Merge existing policies into a single comprehensive policy.
2. Clearer eligibility and assessment: Simplify wording for clarity on eligibility criteria and the assessment process.
3. Range of travel assistance options: Introduce various options for school travel assistance.
4. Clear appeal process: Establish a transparent appeal process across all age groups.
5. Service charges: Clarify areas where the council may charge for services.
6. Financial contribution: Adjust financial contributions from parents/carers for non-compulsory school-age children or those using the 'spare seats scheme'.
7. Travel for below compulsory age: Clarify conditions for travel assistance for younger children.
8. Policy for young adults over 19: Define travel assistance for those over 19
9. Independent travel training: Emphasise training and alternative travel modes to support EHCP outcomes.
10. Personal transport budgets: Focus on using personal transport budgets
11. Application process clarity: Enhance clarity on the application process and eligibility criteria for parents.
12. Parental responsibilities: Detail the rights and responsibilities of parents in accompanying children.
13. Decision factors: Clarify factors influencing travel assistance decisions, including exceptional circumstances.

Objectives and improvements

The policy aims to provide more choice, independence, and control for families by:

• introducing a comprehensive Spare Seat Offer for purchase by parents or adults not eligible for council-funded travel assistance
• implementing independent travel training to foster independence and skills for future employment
• detailing the assessment of safe walking routes and guidance for private lanes or unadopted roads
• ensuring travel assistance continuity for children in Year 6 and Year 11 during local home address changes
• enhancing system efficiency with online applications, automated checks, and digital pass issuance