Free transport set to end for some SEND students

Some students age 16 and above with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will be expected to use public transport instead of council-funded taxis and minibuses under new plans.

Wiltshire Council's cabinet has voted for a new policy where young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) - those entering post-16 education from September - will have to use bus passes or get lifts with guardians.

The council estimates it will save more than £400,000 in the current financial year.

Cabinet member for children's services, SEND, and education and skills, Councillor John Hubbard, said it was "not about financial savings" but "getting young people travel-ready".

In a meeting last week, Hubbard said it was "a difficult and controversial item", but every case would be "treated on its own merit", with taxis remaining available where needed.

The council is legally required to provide free home to school transport for eligible children of compulsory school age, but there is no equivalent law for those aged 16 and above.

However, Wiltshire Council currently provides discretionary transport to 431 post-16 students at an annual cost of approximately £2.3m.

A recent parliamentary report found spending on SEND transport for over-16s was growing proportionately faster than that for those under 16.

The shift away from "designated taxis" is expected to save the council more than £400,000 in 2026/27, and nearly £300,000 in 2027/28.

Jackie Fieldwick is CEO of Brunel Academies Trust, which runs schools across Wiltshire:

"I can see it from both perspectives; Wiltshire is aiming to work closely with parents/carers [who] have concerns because actually using public transport post-16 can be really challenging," she said.

"But the reality is it's a good life skill to learn for the next stage leading to greater independence."

The move follows a public consultation where 187 responses, with some raising concerns about travel in rural areas, safety and anxiety and the impact on employment.

Hubbard acknowledged public transport in parts of Wiltshire is "infrequent" and "not a viable option" for some.

"I'm genuinely proud that we have a system in Wiltshire where every child has an equal opportunity to receive an education, and I wouldn't want to be part of a system that stripped that away," he added.

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