Proposed Plan to Boost Funding for Student Transportation

A one-month discussion began regarding suggestions to alter the financial aid provided to students who qualify for transportation assistance.

The Peterborough City Council sought input from various stakeholders such as parents, caregivers, and educational institutions regarding proposed increases in subsidies offered to certain families who transport their children to school.

This involved increasing the cycling allowance to £70 each term and boosting the mileage payment by 30 pence in certain cases.

The
consultation
concludes on 20 June and, should the modifications be approved, would become active starting with the new school year in September.

Katy Cole, who serves as the council’s cabinet member for children’s services, stated that public opinions would be “extremely crucial” in assisting with their ultimate decision-making process.

“Young people requiring transportation aid will benefit from your input as it ensures our policies are supportive. Additionally, this feedback can guide us on potential new approaches,” she stated.

‘Environmental benefits’

The council offers travel help to kids in Peterborough under certain conditions; however, whether they qualify may hinge on factors like the child’s age, how far they live from their school, and their family’s financial situation.

For qualifying families, the council has suggested raising mileage reimbursements from 40p to 45p, along with offering an increased rate of 70p for students who have special educational needs and disabilities.

The authorities expressed hope that this would prompt parents and caregivers to arrange their own transportation for their children to school, “in a way that caters to each child’s specific requirements.”

A quarterly allowance of £30 for bicycles for secondary school students would be raised to £100. This measure was implemented temporarily following 2020 with the aim of encouraging health and environmental advantages.

The council has additionally proposed modifying the criteria for students who fail to secure a spot at their closest or assigned school.

In order to be eligible for travel assistance, students were required to stay on a waiting list for their nearest or assigned school and had to resubmit their application at the beginning of every academic year.

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