Parents, carers, young people, schools and transport providers are being invited to have their say on proposed changes to Thurrock Council's Home to School Travel policies. The consultation will help shape how travel support is provided from April 2027 onwards.
The proposed changes cover travel arrangements for children of compulsory school age, as well as post-16 and post-19 learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The consultation has been launched as Thurrock Council reviews how statutory and non-statutory travel support can continue to meet the needs of children and young people. The proposals also aim to support more young people to develop independent travel skills and prepare for adulthood.
For young people aged 16 to 25 with SEND, the consultation also includes proposals to make Personal Travel Budgets (PTBs) the standard offer of support, replacing council-contracted transport, such as taxis and minibuses in most cases. Families would receive funding to make their own travel arrangements, giving them greater flexibility and control over how young people travel to their place of education.
The consultation also includes proposed changes to mainstream and SEND travel arrangements for children aged 5 to 16, including travel support for families living in temporary accommodation and changes to how often Personal Travel Budgets are paid.
To provide additional support, the council will be developing its travel training programme, following feedback from the consultation. The programme aims to support eligible post-16 young people to build their confidence and independence.
No decisions have been made and all feedback received during the consultation will be carefully considered before any recommendations are presented to Cabinet. Any policy change will come into effect from April 2027, with any approved implementation to take effect from September 2027.
Councillor Milena Bingley, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Children's Services, said: "We know how important travel is in helping children and young people access education, and we are committed to ensuring support remains available for those who need it.
"We need to consider how we can continue providing support in a way that helps young people prepare for adult life.
"Many young people tell us they want greater independence and opportunities to develop the skills needed for adulthood. The proposals provide families with more flexibility and choice.
"This consultation is an opportunity for parents, carers, young people, education providers and other stakeholders to tell us what they think before any final decisions are made. I would encourage everyone with an interest in these proposals to take part and share their views."
How to take part
The consultation is now live and is open until 11.59pm on 24 December 2026.
Residents can read the full proposals and complete the consultation survey by visiting the consultation webpage: https://consult.thurrock.gov.uk/home-to-school-transport-2026
Following the consultation, responses will be reviewed and considered before recommendations are presented to Cabinet for a final decision. Any approved changes would start from April 2027, with any approved implementation taking place from September 2027.