School transport FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers about home to school transport
By applying for transport assistance, you give the council permission to consult with colleagues in SEN and to use current documents such as the EHCP, to help the Panel understand the individual needs and circumstances of the young person. We may, within reason, ask parent/carers for written evidence to support any reasons given for not being available to assist the young person with their transport needs. This might include but is not limited to, a letter from an employer or a medical professional.
You will need to provide the award letter to show that you are in receipt of any of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment Support Allowance
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190
- Working Tax Credit run-on-paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Taxi Credit
- Universal Credit provided you have an annual net earned income of no more than £7,400
Requesting an exception to home to school transport policy
If your application for Home to School Transport has been refused, you may request that your case be considered as an exception to policy.
Read the Apply for home to school transport page
This means that you will ask the local authority to review your circumstances that are not the standard eligibility criteria.
What is an exception to policy?
An exception to policy is a discretionary decision made in exceptional circumstances. This is where the usual transport eligibility rules do not apply. These are considered on a case-by-case basis. The circumstances must be supported by strong, relevant evidence.
Examples of exceptional circumstances might include
- serious medical or social needs of the child or family
- recent family crisis or safeguarding concerns
- lack of safe walking routes not covered by standard assessments
Note - if you disagree with the policy or you prefer a particular school it is not considered an exceptional circumstance.
What evidence should I provide?
To support your request, you should include clear and detailed evidence such as:
- Medical reports or letters from healthcare professionals
- Social care assessments or support plans
- Police reports or safeguarding documentation
- Any other official documentation that supports your case
The more specific and relevant your evidence, the better we can assess your request.
Important cost implications
Even if an exception is granted, transport may not be provided free of charge. In many cases, a contribution towards the cost of transport will be required. This is to ensure that discretionary support is sustainable and fair to all families.
The following contributions apply based on the distance to travel. The exception to policy will be time limited. The cost for special arrangements can be worked out based on how many weeks the arrangement lasts. To be reviewed annually and charges adjusted in line with CPI, as at March of the previous academic year.
| Distance to Travel | Annual Charge |
|---|---|
| Up to 5 miles | £640 |
| 5.01 miles to 7.5 miles | £887 |
| 7.51 miles to 10 miles | £1,242 |
| Over 10 miles | £1,419 |
To have the contribution waived
To have the contribution waived, you must provide evidence that you receive one of the following:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit (only if not also receiving Working Tax Credit and your annual gross income is £16,190 or less)
- Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for 4 weeks after stopping Working Tax Credit)
- Universal Credit
Families eligible for Free School Meals due to low income are also exempt from paying the contribution.
How to submit your request
Send your written request and supporting evidence to school.admissions@iow.gov.uk