Council reviews Home to School Transport to meet rising demand
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Wakefield Council is inviting residents, families, schools and partners to have their say on proposed changes to its Home to School Transport policies.
The consultation opens on Monday 14 September and runs until Wednesday 21 October. The proposals are designed to ensure Home to School Transport remains fair, sustainable and aligned with updated national guidance.
The review comes as Home to School Transport costs have increased from approximately £2.2 million in 2018/19 to £10.5 million in 2024/25.
"Every child and young person in our district deserves the opportunity to thrive and access the support they need.
“We know transport can play an important role for some families, which is why it's important that people take part in this consultation and share their views.
“At the same time, demand for SEND services and transport support has changed significantly in recent years. We need to make sure our policies remain sustainable for the future while continuing to meet our legal responsibilities."
Cllr Matthew Caton
Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
The consultation includes proposals relating to post-16 transport, transport for non-compulsory school-age children and Alternative Provision transport.
Under the proposals Personal Transport Budgets would become the default offer for eligible post-16 learners. With Council-arranged transport available only in exceptional circumstances.
Discretionary transport support for children below compulsory school age would cease. Alternative Provision transport would normally only be provided at the start and end of the standard school day.
Alongside the consultation, Wakefield Council continues to invest in its SEND Sufficiency Programme to help more children and young people access the right support, closer to home. Over the past three years, the Council has invested more than £11 million. Creating more than 250 new specialist school places and strengthening inclusion within mainstream schools.
The Council has also continued to invest in mainstream inclusion through its High Needs Capital Grant Scheme. Since 2021, more than 47 schools and settings have received funding to create more inclusive learning environments. Including sensory rooms, nurture spaces and specialist learning areas. Helping children with SEND succeed in their local school wherever possible.
Feedback from the consultation will be analysed before recommendations are considered by Cabinet in February 2027 and Full Council in March 2027.
Residents can find out more and take part in the consultation at https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/about-the-council/consultation-and-engagement/wakefield-council-consultations