Getting your child to school can be one of the biggest challenges families face, especially when a child has additional needs or disabilities, this guide is to learn about SEND travel assistance in Medway. If your child has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), they may be eligible for travel assistance from Medway Council.
This guide explains who may be eligible, what support is available, and what to do if your application is refused.
What is SEND Travel Assistance?
SEND travel assistance helps children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities get to and from their education setting safely.
Medway Council offers a range of travel assistance options for eligible children and young people aged 5–16. Applications for children under 5 may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If a child is eligible, Medway Council will decide the most appropriate type of support based on their individual needs and circumstances.
What Types of Travel Assistance Are Available?
Travel assistance can be provided in several ways, including:
- Bus passes
- Rail Passes
- Fuel allowance
- SEND Transport
The support offered will depend on the child’s needs, age, ability to travel independently, and the distance to their education setting.
Does My Child Need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?
to apply for send transport you will need a EHC plan. However if your child has SEND you can still apply for free school transport which is decided a case by case basis.
However, having an EHCP does not automatically mean transport will be provided as each application is assessed individually.
My Child is Over 16. Can They Still Receive Travel Support?
Yes.
Young people aged 16–25 with SEND may still be eligible for travel assistance if they:
- Have learning difficulties or disabilities, and
- Have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan.
Families are usually required to make an annual contribution towards the cost of transport. The amount charged can vary each year, so it is important to check the latest figures on Medway Council’s website.
What Happens if My Application Is Refused?
If your application is refused, parents and carers have the right to request a review of the decision and provide additional supporting evidence.
A review allows the council to reconsider the decision using any new information provided.
Where Can I Find More Information?
The most up-to-date information about SEND travel assistance, eligibility criteria, and application forms can be found on Medway Council’s website: SEND travel assistance | Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) travel assistance | Medway Council
Parents can also contact Medway Parents & Carers Forum for peer support, information, and guidance from other families who have experience navigating the SEND system.
Need Support?
At Medway Parents & Carers Forum, we understand that navigating SEND services can feel overwhelming. Our forum exists to help parent carers access information, share experiences, and ensure family voices are heard across Medway.
If you’re unsure whether your child may be eligible for travel assistance, reach out to us or visit Medway Council’s SEND Information Hub for further guidance.