Personal travel budgets have become a popular alternative for SEND families in Hackney and Islington looking for more control and flexibility in daily journeys.
What Is a Personal Travel Budget?
Instead of using council-run buses or taxis, eligible families receive direct payments to arrange transport that suits their unique routines—whether by car, contribution to a carer’s cost, or taxi fares.
Day in the Life: Parent Perspectives
Take “Sarah” and her son, Jamie, who attends a specialist school in Islington. By opting for a personal travel budget, Sarah was able to coordinate Jamie’s transport with after-school therapy, family routines, and holiday clubs.
“Before the budget, our mornings were hectic, waiting for the minibus at specific times,” Sarah recalls. “Now, I can drive Jamie myself or hire a regular taxi familiar with his needs. It’s less stressful, and I feel much more in control.”
How Does It Work?
- Apply through the Council: Families complete an application form and assessment.
- Receive Funding: If approved, payments are made directly to parents or carers.
- Arrange Transport: Families can choose drivers, work with trusted taxis, or combine care trips with school runs.
Benefits
- Enables consistency and comfort for children who don’t thrive in group transport
- Streamlines family routines
- Supports parents in fitting therapies or appointments around school time
Accessing a Personal Travel Budget
Visit Hackney or Islington’s SEND Local Offer pages, where eligibility requirements and a step-by-step guide are detailed. Councils provide support in managing the budget and will review arrangements annually to ensure children’s needs continue to be met.
Jimac Cars proudly manages SEND transport across all these boroughs, ensuring children receive safe, reliable, and compassionate service in Hackney, Islington, H&F, Waltham Forest, Camden, and Haringey.
