Purpose

To agree the parent/student level of
contribution towards home to school and college travel assistance
for the academic year 2024/25 and confirm the rates for mileage
allowance and Personal Travel Assistance Budgets (PTAB).

Content

To agree the parent/student level of
contribution towards post 16 home to school and college travel
assistance for mainstream and SEND students for the academic year
2024-25 as
• £785 for non-low income students
• £620 for low-income students

Payment will continue to be accepted as a lump sum, termly or by
monthly direct debit.

To also confirm the rates for payment of mileage allowance at 45p
per mile, and Personal Travel Assistance Budgets at 60p per
mile.

Alternative options considered

The contribution level is reviewed annually. A
range of options were considered between a zero increase and full
cost recovery based upon mainstream costs (SEND transport costs are
much higher). The cost to the authority for providing travel
assistance continues to rise each year, and these charges represent
a significant subsidy by the authority for most students
supported.

The rates for mileage allowance and Personal Travel Assistance
Budgets were reviewed and it is felt that they remain a fair offer,
being in excess of the HMRC’s advisory fuel rates.