Purpose

This report seeks Cabinet Member approval to update Surrey County Council’s Home to School Travel Assistance Policy and Post-16 Transport Policy Statement for implementation in the 2026/27 academic year following an annual review.

Decision

RESOLVED:

1. That Cabinet notes the outcomes of the public consultation (517 complete submissions) and the Equality Impact Assessment, and agrees the mitigations set out to address identified risks.
2. That Cabinet approves the revised Post16 Transport Policy Statement, including revised annual contribution rates of £689.67 for eligible low-income learners and £951.12 for all other learners.
3. That Cabinet approves the updated Post 16 Independent Travel Allowance (ITA) structure expanded mileage bands up to 40–50 miles.
4. That Cabinet agrees to delegate authority to the Executive Director for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning to make minor changes to the policy as required.

Reasons for Decisions:

The revised policy ensure Surrey County Council remains compliant with statutory duties and guidance, reflects current national changes, and responds directly to issues raised through the public consultation. The recommendations improve clarity for families, support fairer and more transparent decision making, and strengthen Surrey’s ability to deliver sustainable and cost effective travel assistance.

(The decisions on this item can be called-in by the Children, Families, Lifelong Learning & Culture Select Committee)