URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4797

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content:   14.1 The Head of Service for Resourcing and Business Planning introduced the report which provided an update following the consultation on a proposal to increase the parental contribution for Post-16 SEND Home to School transport (minibuses and taxis) held between July and September 2025.   A presentation was also shown which included information on vision for home to school travel, home to school travel options, key transformation workstreams, post 16 consultation, current post 16 fee income policy, post 16 proposal overview, proposal details, key themes of consultation and response to consultation and support options for families.      14.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Education, Children and Families Policy Committee:- (a)  Agrees to increase the Post-16 SEN home to school travel and transport parental contribution from £540 to £1,000 per year from April 2026; (b)  Agrees that on an annual basis an inflationary increase will be added to the parental contribution level, starting from September 2027; (c)  Agrees to increase the net household income threshold from £21,000 to £25,000 per year; and (d)  Agrees that on an annual basis an inflationary increase will be added to the net household income level threshold, starting from September 2027.     14.3 Reasons for Decision     14.3.1 The decision to increase the Post-16 SEN home to school travel and transport parental contribution from £540 to £1,000 per year is based on the need to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the service in the context of rising demand, significant budget pressures, and increasing transport costs. While the consultation highlighted strong concerns from families, the Council will continue to fund the vast majority of the transport cost and will fully protect low-income households through bursaries and waivers. The increase forms part of a wider programme to expand independent travel options, improve choice, and maintain a fair, equitable, and sustainable travel support offer for those who need it most.     14.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     14.4.1 Alternative Option 1: Do Nothing. Maintain the status quo and continue with existing parental contribution of £540 per year. Advantages: It is more affordable for families and takes into account the consultation feedback. Disadvantages: Maintaining the current level of parental contribution is increasingly challenging due to rising costs, which are placing growing pressure on the Council’s budget. Continuing with the status quo is not financially sustainable in the long term.     14.4.2 Alternative Option 2: Cease all provision of transport for post-16 SEN students, as this is not a statutory provision Advantages: Reduction in expenditure of approximately £4m. Disadvantages: Likely to provide barriers to young people accessing post-16 education. Potential safety concerns.        

Date of Decision: December 17, 2025