Swindon Council opens consultation on potential charges for SEND transport services
Feedback sought on proposed fees for home-to-school transport
Swindon Borough Council has launched a public consultation on proposals to introduce an annual charge for young people aged 16 to 18 using the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) home-to-school transport service.
Currently provided at no cost to families, Swindon's SEND transport service supports 115 students without legal obligation or government funding.
The proposed change, aimed at aligning with other local authorities, involves charging a contribution from September 2027.
Final decisions are pending, following an initial consultation last year that gathered feedback from families and professionals.
The initiative arises from significant financial pressures, prompting a review of non-statutory services to explore savings.
Councillor Kate Tomlinson, Cabinet Member for Children and Education, emphasized the importance of gathering input from affected parties through the consultation.
She noted Swindon Borough Council's engagement with groups like Swindon SEND Families Voice to ensure voices are heard.
Interested residents can participate in the consultation through the Swindon Local Offer website until 26th October.
Councillor Tomlinson urged everyone impacted to share their views, which will be considered before any final action.