Post-16 SEND pupils to be encouraged to travel independently to school

The move a policy change by Portsmouth City Council for post-16 learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

Currently, these pupils have access to a council-funded mini-bus or taxi. Officers noted that a bus pass or travel allowance will be the default offering moving forward, discouraging the use of council-funded taxis and minibuses.

This was done in the aim of travel arrangements being “safe and cost effective” while preparing young people “for adult life by supporting independent travel”.

Councillor Russell Simpson expressed scepticism, adding that many pupils feel “insecure” or “uncomfortable” on public transport.

Officers clarified that “we will be offering independent travel assistance programs” to “maximise” the number of young people feeling confident on public transport, but added that if families believe public transport is inappropriate, they will “act reasonably”.

The new approach was described as “proactive rather than reactive” by Cllr Nick Dorrington, who welcomed the reassurance for pupils who “slip through the net”.

Cllr Hannah Brent fully supported the policy but encouraged “constant communication” before its introduction in September 2026.

The bus pass or travel allowance will be free to families, but the cost for minibuses and taxis will increase from £660 to £690, payable in three instalments.

The cost will remain at £495 for low-income households.

The council also noted a new set of “transport expectations” that while arrangements will be as consistent as possible, changes of “personnel or to the groups that have been travelling together are inevitable”.

It was previously reported that Portsmouth’s high needs block has a projected budget gap of £4.5m for the 2026/27 municipal year.

This is partly driven by demand for special schools, inclusion centres, alternative provision, out-of-city placements, and post-16 support.