SEND travel allowances, fees, and training
Find out more about:
- fuel allowances
- transport charges
- personal travel assistance budget rates
- solo transport
- training for drivers and assistants.
Fuel allowances
We offer fuel allowances to parents or carers who wish to drive their children to and from school.
A fuel allowance of 45p per mile is payable for 2 return journeys per school day to your child’s education setting. This is usually paid termly in advance (3 times per academic year).
Transport charges for the 2025 to 2026 academic year
A financial contribution for travel assistance is needed.
- Replacement Arriva bus pass - £12.60
- Post 16 transport contribution - £850
- Post 16 transport contribution for low-income families - £637.50.
Personal travel assistance budget rate for 2025 to 2026
A personal travel assistance budget is for children and young people with complex or exceptional needs.
| Band | Distance from home to school | Annual personal travel assistance budget |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 miles and under | £1,000 |
| 2 | 3.1 miles to 5 miles | £1,200 |
| 3 | 5.1 miles to 7 miles | £1,800 |
| 4 | 7.1 miles to 10 miles | £2,500 |
| 5 | More than 10 miles | £5,000 |
Solo transport
Solo transport such as private taxis will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and only if there is clear evidence to support the need.
If granted, solo transport will be for a limited time and your child is expected to return to shared transport afterwards.
Training for drivers and passenger assistants
All drivers and passenger assistants will have training appropriate to the needs of the children they are supporting.
They’ll also carry an identity card which is renewed every 3 years. This confirms they have an up to date DBS check.