School Travel Assistance Policy consultation proposals

Have your say on these proposals

Proposal One: Public transport travel pass

A free pass for use on public transport, also available for a parent or travel buddy to support the child.

Proposal Two: Supported public transport

Assistance for children traveling on public transport, with options for a passenger assistant, befriending service, or travel buddy if parents cannot accompany them.

Proposal Three: Escorted walking  and ‘Walking-Bus’ or cycling

Cycling incentives

A one-off payment may be offered to eligible students who choose to cycle to school. This includes a program for independent travel training to ensure safe cycling. 

Walking Bus Scheme

Children may join a walking bus, where they walk to and from school with the guidance of a passenger assistant. 

Benefits

These carbon-neutral methods reduce vehicle traffic, contributing to better health and reduced congestion around schools.

Proposal Four: Independent Travel Training (ITT)

Currently, children with Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are transported by Council-arranged services, with no ITT option.

Objective

Support independence and public transport use for children with SEND, preparing them for adulthood.

Training program

Offers life skills training to help children travel independently, tailored to their pace. Includes possible designated pick-up/drop-off points and reassessment if there is a change of school or education setting.

Implementation

From Autumn 2025, the Council will identify suitable candidates for ITT and work with schools and parents. Initially, it's estimated that about five children per year will qualify.

Parental choice

Participation in ITT is voluntary, and most children with SEND will continue with current transport arrangements. If parents opt for ITT, travel arrangements may change post-training.

Proposal Five: Reimbursement of mileage

Eligibility: Parents of eligible children can receive mileage reimbursement if they transport their child using a personal or commissioned vehicle.

Rate: The proposed mileage rate is 45 pence per mile, accounting for four journeys per day. This includes reimbursement for cycling and wheeling travel methods.

These proposals aim to provide diverse travel options that foster independence, promote sustainability, and accommodate the unique needs of students, particularly those with SEND.

Proposal Six: Personal Transport Budgets (PTB)

PTBs offer parents the flexibility to arrange their child's transport, potentially more suitable and cost-effective than council-arranged options. PTBs are sums of money provided to parents of eligible children with special needs or disabilities who qualify for free school transport.

Usage

PTBs can be used for various independent travel arrangements, such as purchasing public transport passes, hiring someone to accompany the child, shared travel arrangements, or overcoming other travel barriers.

Eligibility and implementation

PTBs are available for children aged 19 to 25 and would be paid directly to the individual. They are for situations where traditional transport options are unsuitable. Options will be developed in collaboration with families and stakeholders, with an emphasis on independence and cost-effectiveness.

Parental involvement

Parents are not obligated to accept PTBs, and existing transport arrangements will remain for those who choose not to participate. The School Transport Service will assess and discuss PTB suitability with families.

Administrative simplicity

PTBs aim to be straightforward to manage, with agreements set at the start of the school year and reviewed annually.

Personal Transport Budget options

Option 1: Daily rates

In this option, the PTB will be based on a banded daily rate, depending on the length of each journey.  For illustration purposes this could be at the following banded rates:

1. 0 to 4.99 miles per journey, with maximum rates likely to be £10 per day or £1,900 per year.
2. 5 to 9.99 miles per journey, with maximum rates likely to be £20 per day or £3,800 per year.
3. 10 to 19.99 miles per journey, with maximum rates likely to be £35 per day or £6,650/year.
4. Over 20 miles per journey, with maximum rates likely to be - £45 per day or £8,550 per year.

Option 2: Mileage rates

In this option a single rate would be offered, regardless of distance. A likely mileage rate is 45 pence per mile, based on four journeys per day.  

Option 3: Flat rate

In this option a fixed weekly or monthly allowance regardless of distance travelled would be offered. Rates could vary from £30 to £100 per week based on needs and eligibility.

Option 4: Enhanced rates for the most complex needs

This option would provide extra support for families where children have more complex transport needs Higher rates for families with children receiving high-level Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Option 5: Mixed model

This option would give a high degree of flexibility and could include any combination of daily rates, mileage rates, flat rate allowances and enhanced rates for the most complex needs, based on distance and specific needs.  This may also be combined with enhanced rates for families where children have more complex transport needs. This is a popular model for many councils across the country.

Proposal Seven: Driving lessons

Funded driving lessons for eligible young people, offering a cost-effective transport solution. Available to those aged over 17 who qualify for the enhanced mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Proposal Eight: Transport vehicles

Council-procured vehicles to transport children to school, with a preference for group travel and designated pick-up points.

Requirements

Home pick-ups are limited to cases of significant need. Parents must notify the Council if transport is not needed to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Allocation

Based on assessed needs, including special vehicles for mobility challenges. Passenger assistants provided if necessary.

Ranking

1. Minibus or coach with group pick-up.
2. Shared vehicle seat.
3. Individual vehicle in exceptional cases.