Concerns SEND school travel provision could be overwhelmed
The council says there's growing demand for its service to get pupils to school
There's a call for more people to take up opportunities to become drivers who can take children with special educational needs to school.
Wiltshire Council says it needs to recruit more drivers to meet growing demand, with more than 2,500 SEND students using council-provided transport to reach education facilities across the county.
The authority currently employs 111 drivers, but Andrew Dixon, from the Passenger Transport Unit says more are needed.
"Obviously we have a bank of what we call relief drivers to make sure that we've got a support network. So if a driver goes sick or is absent for any reason, we can backfill and maintain the service," he said.
Andrew added that better diagnostic techniques mean special needs are being identified in more people, which is increasing the number of people eligible for the transport service.
The role helps ensure young people get to school safely, with Andrew adding that it's often a highlight of the students' day.
He said: "For most of our students, the best part of their day is on school transport. They turn up to school happy and bubbly and ready to start the school day for a day of education."
All drivers and assistants are fully trained in safeguarding and first aid, with various courses offered to help build understanding of specific needs.
Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Our drivers play a vital role in ensuring children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities are transported to school safely, comfortably and on time each day. We are incredibly grateful for the commitment and care they show to the pupils and families they support.
“As demand for these services continues, we are always looking for additional drivers to join our team. This is a rewarding and flexible role that can make a real difference in the community, and it can be particularly well suited to those who are retired or semi-retired and looking to give something back.
“We are committed to supporting our drivers with the training and guidance they need, and we would encourage anyone interested to get in touch and find out more about how they can help support local families.”