Consultation on post 16 SEND transport charges launched

While the transport is currently provided at no cost to families, it is not a legal requirement, and the Council receives no government funding to deliver it. At present, 115 students between the ages of 16 and 18 receive the free service.

Under the proposals, young people who wish to use the transport from September 2027 would pay an annual contribution, bringing Swindon in line with many other local authorities.

No final decisions on whether to introduce charges will be made until later in the year. The proposals follow an initial consultation in January last year, which provided valuable feedback from families and professionals.

The consultation begins as the Council continues to face significant financial pressures. All non‑statutory services are being reviewed to help identify further potential savings.

Councillor Kate Tomlinson, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Education, said: “It is incredibly important that everyone affected by these proposals takes the opportunity to share their views.

“Parents and carers will receive a letter inviting them to participate in the consultation, and we have also been engaging with groups such as Swindon SEND Families Voice.

“We’re operating in a challenging financial climate, but it is vital that we hear from those affected so their feedback can be carefully considered before any final decisions are taken.”

The consultation is available now on the Swindon Local Offer website and will close on Monday, 26 October.