Content

11.1

The
Head of Service for Resourcing and Business Planning introduced the
report which updated Members on the projected growth trajectory in
Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) issuance and on progress of
the review currently underway of associated demand for Home to
School Travel services, an assessment of current service delivery,
and proposed action plan.
 

11.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Education,
Children and Families Policy Committee:-

Notes
the findings of the review of Home to School travel to
date.
Notes
the actions undertaken and proposed in the report to mitigate
anticipated pressures.
Note
that Officers will work to develop any necessary detailed
implementation plans for the proposals in this report so, once
agreed, they can be implemented during the 2024/25 financial
year.

 

11.3

Reasons for Decision

11.3.1

Implementation of the actions laid out in section 2 will
increase independence for children and young people with special
educational needs and disabilities and make best use of resources,
reducing expenditure whilst maintaining flexibility for
families.
 
There
will also be sustainability benefits in the form of reduced
administrative burden by improving workflow and systems, and a
reduction in single passenger taxi journeys within the
city.

11.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

11.4.1

Do Nothing.
 
Doing nothing is not a viable option as the
current arrangements do not meet the needs of all young people in
terms of their transition to adulthood and supporting them to
develop their independence and gain a key life skill. In addition,
the predicted levels of increased demand for travel support and
accompanied costs cannot be met within Council budgets and will
pose a key challenge to the long-term financial health of the
Council.