Purpose

This report makes policy recommendations based on consultation feedback and results, as well as relevant contextual information.

Decision

Resolved – That:

1. 1.  The revised Assisted Travel Policy for Children and Young People aged 0-16 years be approved as set out in appendix 1 to the report, which:

•  Extended coverage to include pre-compulsory school age (0–4) with clear statutory responsibilities.

•  Maintained separate provisions for 5–16 in line with Department for Education guidance.

1. 2.  The revised terms for Personal Transport Budgets be approved within both 0-16 and post-16 policies, which:

•  Provided 45p per mile for two journeys per day.

•  Introduced a supplementary payment of £3 per day to reflect fixed costs for parents/carers transporting their child, subject to annual review.

1. 3.  It was agreed not to implement the proposed £680 Learner Contribution for Post-16 Assisted Travel and endorsed the current Post-16 Assisted Travel Statement subject to the revised terms for Personal Transport Budgets set out in recommendation 2 of the report.
2. 4.  The development and expansion of Independent Travel Training be agreed to:

•  Promote independence for young people.

•  Reduce long-term reliance on assisted transport.

1. 5.  A pilot scheme for Pick-Up Points be approved with:

•  Voluntary participation.

•  Monitoring of cost, safety, and user experience before wider implementation

1. 6.  The Director for Children’s Services be authorised to explore alternative means of reducing the cost of home to school transport via procurement and commissioning options, ready for delivery in September 2026.