Purpose

That Cabinet approves the proposed targeted amendments to the Home to School Travel Assistance Policy (Under16) for publication and implementation from September 2026

Decision

RESOLVED:

1. That Cabinet notes the outcomes of the public consultation across both compulsory school age and post 16  (517 complete submissions) and the Equality Impact Assessment, and agrees the mitigations set out to address identified risks.
2. That Cabinet approves the targeted amends to the Home to School Travel Assistance Policy (Under16) for publication and implementation from September 2026.

·         Additional text within ‘Nearest school, Eligibility section’ - your nearest school may be in a neighbouring county. If you apply to a school that is not your nearest, you will need to show that you tried to get a place at closer schools and were refused

·         Additional text within ‘Statutory walking distances’ -From?September 2026, the UK Government is expanding eligibility for?free school meals?to?all children in households receiving Universal Credit, removing the previous income cap of £7,400.

This change means; Families on Universal Credit will automatically qualify for free school meals. This expansion is part of the Government’s Plan for Change, aiming to reduce child poverty and improve access to education.

·         Amendment to wording within ‘How distances are measured’ section – shortest route to via walking route

·         Rework of ‘Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) and Alternative Provision for children and young people with additional needs and disability’ section - Having these provisions clearly separated enhances transparency for families, making it easier for them to understand the support available.

·         Additional text within ‘Concessionary seats’ - All vehicles used must be Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR) compliant. This requirement may reduce the availability of suitable vehicles in the coach market, which may limit the number of spare seats available. Parents and carers cannot appeal if a spare seat is not available on a particular route.

1. That Cabinet agrees delegated authority to the Executive Director for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning to make minor changes to the policies as required.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

The recommendations are necessary to ensure the Council continues to meet its statutory duties under the Education Act 1996 and remains aligned with updated national guidance, including changes to Free School Meal (FSM) eligibility and the requirements of the Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR).

The proposed amendments respond directly to evidence from the January - February 2026 public consultation, addressing concerns about safety, accessibility, clarity and consistency, particularly for SEND learners, low?income families, and children accessing EOTAS or Alternative Provision. By providing clearer definitions and eligibility criteria, the changes support fairer, more transparent decision making for families. The recommendations also reflect operational and financial considerations, helping the Council manage demand, deliver value for money and ensure the long?term sustainability of home to school travel assistance.

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