SEN School Transport – need to know
Understanding Changes in SEN School Transport – What You Need to Know
At MAIN, we are proud to support families, young people, and the professionals who work tirelessly to ensure children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) can access the support they need to thrive.
Over recent months, we area aware of many families who have shared concerns about changes or uncertainty surrounding SEN school transport, including cases where transport has been removed or replaced with a personal transport budget (PTB). These changes can understandably cause worry and disruption, particularly when routines and consistency are so vital for many of our children.
We want to take a moment to recognise the incredible work Education and Local Authorities do every day. From transport arrangements and short breaks to wider SEND services, many departments across the country are working under increasing pressure to meet growing demand with limited resources. We value these efforts and acknowledge how vital their work is in supporting our communities.
What Does the Law Say?
Children with special educational needs are entitled to free home-to-school transport up to the age of 16, if they meet certain criteria, including distance from school, mobility difficulties, or if their SEN or disability means they cannot reasonably be expected to walk to school.
This is a statutory duty under the Education Act (1996), and Local Authorities must provide suitable transport for eligible children of compulsory school age. For most children, this means up to the end of the academic year in which they turn 16.
In practice, this support should be part of a broader transition plan, developed in partnership with families, to prepare young people for life beyond school.
How MAIN Can Help
If your family is affected by these changes, please know you are not alone, and support is available. At MAIN, we are here to offer:
Advice and guidance on your child’s transport rights
Help with understanding decisions made by the Local Authority
Support in challenging decisions if you believe your child is being unfairly impacted
A listening ear when things feel overwhelming
We want to work with Local Authorities and families, not in opposition. Believing that the best outcomes come from collaboration, compassion, and clear communication.
Next Steps for Families
If your child is under 16 and you’ve been informed their transport is changing or ending, you may wish to:
Request a written explanation of the decision from your Local Authority
Check your child’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to see if transport is mentioned
Get in touch with us at MAIN for support and advice
Remember, any decision that impacts a child’s access to education is a serious one, and it’s okay to ask questions or challenge, if needed.
At MAIN, our mission is always to empower families and young people, and that includes making sure that your voice is heard and that your rights are respected.
We’re here to help you navigate these systems and stand alongside you every step of the way.
With care,
The MAIN Team
#TogetherRaisingSmiles
