From September 2012 the council is changing how the current transport policy is applied, so that support is provided consistently and fairly. Parents/carers of children with special educational needs will need to complete an application form to apply for transport assistance.

The home to school transport policy 2009 applies to all children including those with special educational needs.

Pupils aged 5-16, with a statement of SEN, and who have been placed by the local authority in specialist provision will qualify for transport assistance if they live more than the statutory walking distance to the appropriate school. The policy also makes provision to support children and young people that are not of statutory school age, but only if exceptional circumstances apply.

A review of the application procedure has been undertaken recently to ensure that the policy is applied consistently and fairly, and from June 2012 there will be a requirement for anyone who requests transport to follow a similar process and complete an application form.

If parents/carers submit an application for consideration under exceptional circumstances, a panel will determine whether the specified criteria are met. The new application form can be viewed via this web page on the right.

In the case of children with special educational needs that are of statutory school age (5-16) and that are currently receiving transport, a review of the transport provided will be undertaken during the next 12 months. Those families will also be required to complete an application form for transport support from April 2013. This may mean that the type of transport provided changes from September 2013.

Changes to the application of the policy will ensure that our most vulnerable children and young people continue to receive support, whilst releasing funds to enable further investment into SEN provision, respite facilities and other local support.