Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about travel assistance:
Q: Is my child automatically entitled to travel assistance because they have SEND?
A: Not necessarily. While having SEND is a factor considered, entitlement depends on an assessment of your child's individual needs and circumstances, including their ability to travel independently or with support.
Q: My child does not have an EHCP. Can I still apply for travel assistance?
A: Yes. You can apply for travel assistance for your child with SEND even if they do not have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Q: We live within the walking distance criteria, but the route to school is unsafe. Can I apply?
A: Yes. If the walking route to your nearest suitable school is unsafe and there's no reasonable safe alternative, you may be eligible for travel assistance.
Q: Our child is starting secondary school. Are they entitled to travel assistance?
A: Possibly. If your child is attending the nearest suitable secondary school and the distance is more than 3 miles from your home, they may be eligible.
Q: I am a low-income family. Does this help with travel assistance entitlement?
A: Yes, in some cases. If you receive free school meals or the maximum Working Tax Credit, and your child is aged 11-16 and attends one of their three nearest suitable schools between 2 and 6 miles from home, they may be eligible.
Q: I have more than one child, can I make one application for all of them together?
A: You need to apply for each child separately.
Q: Our child is under 5 but has significant special needs. Can we apply for travel assistance?
A: In some circumstances, the council may provide discretionary travel assistance for children under compulsory school age with significant special educational needs.
Q: What if my child has a temporary medical condition that prevents them from getting to school?
A: The council may award temporary travel assistance in such cases, provided you supply supporting medical evidence.
Q: We are considering a school that is not the nearest. Can we still get travel assistance?
A: If your child has an EHC plan, you can express a preference for a school that is not your nearest suitable school. However, the council will consider the efficient use of resources when deciding.
Q: What kind of travel assistance will I get if my application is approved?
A: During the application process you can state a preference for the kind of travel assistance you would like to receive, but Southend Council will award the most sustainable and suitable option available to the Council at the time.
Q: If I receive travel assistance, how long does it last?
A: When your travel assistance award expires, if you wish to reapply, you should do this before the beginning of the next school year, ideally in May to allow enough time for decisions to be made.
Q: My child is 16 and has an EHCP. Can we get help with travel to college?
A: You may be able to. The council provides discretionary travel assistance for students aged 16-18 years and adult learners aged 19-25 years with EHCPs, subject to eligibility criteria.