Halton council seeks opinions on plans to potentially change or cut school transport for SEND children to save money.
The number of kids needing transport went up, especially those going to schools inside Halton. In 2012, 262 kids used transport; last year, 461 kids needed it. That’s a 76 percent increase in Halton, and more kids also go to schools outside Halton, rising from 37 to 135. That equals a 265 percent increase outside Halton.
The council spent over £3 million on transport in 2024. Halton also transports younger children and older students, though legally, they do not have to provide this. Demand for transport is a national issue, and costs have increased significantly within Halton. The council wants to talk to parents and schools and will discuss possible changes soon.
Personal travel budgets are one option, where parents get money to manage transport themselves, using it for fuel or taxi costs. Allowances elsewhere range from £2,000 to £6,000 per year. Independent travel training is another idea, allowing some older students to travel alone. Central pick-up points are also being considered, replacing door-to-door service.
Motability vehicles don’t affect transport eligibility. Other councils restrict transport for students over 18 who have their own Motability vehicles. Halton may charge parents for kids under five, potentially £750, or £500 for lower-income families, and might even stop transporting this age group.
Post-16 travel costs might increase, and these services could also disappear. That is also part of the new consultation. The council knows some plans are unpopular, as removing services is viewed as cost-cutting. It’s hard to remove services people expect, especially since policies were quite generous in the past. Changes could start in September after the consultation.