The proposed changes affect travel arrangements for children of compulsory school age, as well as post-16 and post-19 learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The review aims to ensure travel support continues to meet needs and to foster independent travel skills for adulthood.
For young people aged 16 to 25 with SEND, proposals include making Personal Travel Budgets (PTBs) the standard offer, replacing council-contracted transport like taxis and minibuses in most cases. This would provide families with funding for their own arrangements, offering greater flexibility and control.
Changes are also proposed for mainstream and SEND travel for children aged 5 to 16, including support for families in temporary accommodation and adjustments to PTB payment frequency. The council plans to enhance its travel training programme based on consultation feedback to build confidence and independence in eligible post-16 young people.
Councillor Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children's Services, stated, "We know how important travel is in helping children and young people access education, and we are committed to ensuring support remains available for those who need it. We need to consider how we can continue providing support in a way that helps young people prepare for adult life. Many young people tell us they want greater independence and opportunities to develop the skills needed for adulthood. The proposals provide families with more flexibility and choice. This consultation is an opportunity for parents, carers, young people, education providers and other stakeholders to tell us what they think before any final decisions are made. I would encourage everyone with an interest in these proposals to take part and share their views."
The consultation is open until 11.59pm on 24 December 2026. Residents can find full proposals and complete the survey on the consultation webpage: consult.thurrock.gov.uk/home-to-school-transport-2026. Feedback will be reviewed before recommendations are presented to Cabinet. Any approved policy changes would take effect from April 2027, with implementation from September 2027.
