Liverpool City Council will implement a set of changes to its Home-to-School Transport Policy and the SEN Post-16 Transport Policy, effective September 2025. The updates aim to promote active travel, and encourage more independent behavior for students, while conforming to the policies of neighboring authorities. These changes emerge after a 10-week public consultation held from March to May, where the Cabinet recognized the commitment towards sustainable and fair traveling options while providing support for those who require it the most.
These changes include certain criteria for eligible candidates; for instance, families who choose schools deemed unsuitable or not the closest one, will not qualify for discretionary free travel. Also, for children aged eight and above, the minimum distance for those able to qualify for travel support will now be three miles, as opposed to two. The council will collaborate with schools to provide travel support for those pupils who do not meet the criteria.
Low-income families composed of 40% of travel pass cases issued will still benefit in accordance with statutory requirements. Eligible students aged 16 and over who have SEN travel support, will now have to contribute £680 a year towards the cost, with the average price incurred being £5,843 per student. Fifty percent of the contribution will decrease for students who qualify for free school meals. There are bursary funding and payment installment facilities available too.
The Council will be providing travel training for students with disabilities. This program will provide specialized training for students aged up to 18, through practical and classroom-based sessions. These sessions aim to provide students with the skills and confidence required to travel independently. Liverpool City Council Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Lila Bennett, states that “We are committed to supporting families through this transition and offer resources and assistance to ensure students can travel safely and independently, where possible.” Those interested in learning more information about changes stated above can click on a detailed information link provided to them on the Council’s School Travel Support webpage
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