Liverpool City Council has launched a consultation on changes to home to school transport proposals, aiming to bring policies in line with neighbouring local authorities. If approved, the new scheme will come into effect from September 2025 and pupils who currently benefit from the existing scheme will continue receiving travel passes or transports unless there is a change in their circumstances. Low-income families representing 40% of all pass holders will not be affected by the proposal.
An assessment shows that 60% of students who currently receive a pass would continue to do so under the new policy. Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Lila Bennett, stated that the current home to school transport policy is no longer sustainable, as an increase in fuel, transport, and insurance costs make the changes necessary. The Council wants to encourage inclusion and independence for young people in the new scheme and pledges to align it with the Department for Education recommendations and encourage students to use more environmentally friendly and sustainable ways of getting to and from school where possible, like walking or cycling.
The Council is consulting to hear views on changing the extended travel assistance policies, with some proposals to bring them in line with national guidance, such as removing discretionary free travel if parents or carers choose a school that is not the nearest suitable educational institution for religious or cultural beliefs. The minimum qualifying distance for free travel from two to three miles would be increased in line with the national guidance for those over eight years old. The travel support for pupils in years 6, 10, and 11 who moved from the school and are no longer within qualifying walking distance would be removed.
With regards to post-16 travel assistance, the Council proposes that, to reduce the burden on Council, they would pay a contribution toward the cost of a student who is eligible for transport, and a reduced cost would be implemented for students that qualify for free school meals; this is in line with other local authorities’ similar arrangements. Liverpool Council will be providing advice to students on accessing student bursaries and working with colleges to enhance support in accessing public transport. Those aged over 16 will be required to pay their contribution in the proposal.
The Council wants to ensure a fair policy that would protect those in low-income groups, and those who receive support currently will continue doing so during their remaining period in education unless their circumstances change. The Council wants to hear as many views as possible from affected residents and will consider them as part of the decision-making process, encouraging residents to visit Liverpool.gov.uk/consultations and complete the survey before 12 April 2024. Once the proposals have undergone the necessary consultations, Cabinet will make recommendations later in the year
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