Post 16 transport policy statement 2026-27

Overview

Each year the council is required to consult young people of sixth form age and their parents as well as other stakeholders on the Post 16 Transport Policy Statement before it is finalised.

The Post-16 Transport Policy Statement outlines the help that might be available through the Council, schools, colleges and transport operators to help young people of sixth form age and adult learners aged 19+ who have an Education Health and Care plan (EHC plan) to get to school and college. It includes information about:

• fares and concessions;
• the Council’s home to school/college transport policy for learners with an EHC plan; and
• contact details for schools and colleges.

Why your views matter

The aim of the consultation is to check that the Policy Statement and related information is complete, clear and accurate. We would like to gather views from young people, parents and other interested parties about:

1. The draft policy statement.

2. The contribution payable when travel assistance is agreed.

1. Draft Policy Statement. Changes in the transport policy statement relate to dates and anticipated changes to travel costs.  There are no substantial changes to the policy around the help from the Council that is available to young people.

You can find the Draft policy at the foot of this overview page. Please leave any comments on page 2 of the survey.

2. Parental contribution.  When travel assistance is granted, a contribution towards to the cost of travel is required. The contribution fee has historically mirrored the annual cost of the Freedom weekly ticket to create equality between SEND and non-SEND learners.

The cost of a Freedom weekly ticket increased on 16 February 2026. This increase reflects the end of the Bus Service Improvement Plan funding that previously supported bus fare reductions in the county. This means the contribution fee will rise in September 2026 to £760 per student from £570. This represents a 33% increase.  Low-income families will pay half this amount (£380).

Typically, changes to contributions are implemented at the start of the academic year.

You can leave us your comments on this particular aspect on page 3 of the survey.