As September approaches, families across Hackney, Islington, Hammersmith & Fulham, Waltham Forest, Camden, and Haringey are preparing for the new academic year. For parents and carers of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), ensuring smooth transport arrangements is crucial for a successful start to the school term.

Key Application Deadlines

The most critical date to remember is July 22nd – this is Hackney Council’s deadline for guaranteeing transport assessment for September start. However, don’t panic if you’ve missed this date. Most councils, including Camden and Waltham Forest, accept applications year-round, though late applications may face delays in processing.

For post-16 students, annual reapplication is mandatory across all six boroughs, even if continuing at the same school.

This ensures transport arrangements remain appropriate as young people’s needs evolve.

Essential Documentation Required

When applying for SEND transport assistance, ensure you have these documents ready:

  • Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or statement of special educational needs
  • Proof of address (utility bill or council tax statement)
  • Medical evidence supporting transport need
  • School placement confirmation
  • Previous transport assessments (if reapplying)

Camden Council emphasises that having an EHCP doesn’t automatically guarantee transport provision – each case is assessed individually based on specific needs and circumstances.

Understanding Eligibility Criteria

Transport assistance eligibility varies slightly across boroughs, but common factors include:

Distance and Accessibility: Children who cannot reasonably walk to their nearest suitable school due to their SEND needs. Unlike mainstream pupils, statutory walking distances don’t apply to SEND assessments.

Individual Needs Assessment: Councils consider the nature of the child’s disability, mobility issues, and safety concerns when using public transport independently.

School Suitability: Transport may be provided to the nearest appropriate school that can meet the child’s specific educational needs, which may not be the geographically closest school.

Types of Transport Support Available

London boroughs offer various transport options depending on individual needs:

Independent Travel Training: Increasingly prioritised across all councils, this builds confidence and life skills while promoting independence. Waltham Forest and Hackney particularly emphasise this approach.

Personal Travel Budgets: Available in most boroughs, these allow families to arrange their own transport solutions while receiving financial support.

Shared Transport: Minibus or taxi services with other pupils, often with passenger assistants for additional support.

Individual Transport: One-to-one taxi service with escorts, reserved for children with the most complex needs.

Parent/Carer Mileage: Reimbursement schemes for families who can transport their children directly.

Application Process Steps

    Step 1: Submit Application
    Complete online forms through your local council’s SEND Local Offer website. Hackney families should email sendbusinesssupport@hackney.gov.uk for new applications, while existing arrangements are managed through transport@hackney.gov.uk.

    Step 2: Assessment Period
    Allow up to 30 days for application processing, though councils aim for faster turnaround times. During busy periods like September, applications may take longer.

    Step 3: Transport Arrangement
    If approved, councils typically arrange transport within 10-15 working days of decision notification.

    September-Specific Considerations

    Route Changes: If your family has moved or your child is starting a new school, notify transport teams immediately. Waltham Forest requires parents to provide two emergency contact numbers and be available at pickup times.

    Behaviour Expectations: All councils have clear behaviour policies for transport users. Ensure your child understands expectations for safe, respectful travel.

    Emergency Contacts: Update all contact information, including backup pickup persons and alternative addresses.

    Appeals and Review Process

    If your application is unsuccessful, don’t give up. All councils offer two-stage appeal processes:

    Stage 1: Review by senior officers within the transport team
    Stage 2: Independent panel review

    Hackney allows 20 working days from decision receipt to request a review, providing detailed reasons for appeal.

    Getting Additional Support

    Several organisations provide guidance and advocacy:

    • SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Service) offers free, independent advice
    • Transport for All campaigns for accessible transport across London
    • Council Family Hubs provide face-to-face support for application completion

    Looking Ahead

    Transport needs can change throughout the academic year. Maintain regular communication with your child’s school SENCO and transport team. Annual reviews ensure arrangements continue meeting your child’s evolving needs while promoting increasing independence where appropriate.

    Remember, September preparation isn’t just about paperwork – it’s about ensuring your child feels confident and supported in their journey to education. With proper planning and early communication with your local council, transport arrangements can provide the foundation for a successful academic year.

    For urgent queries or late applications, contact your local council’s SEND transport team directly. Most offer dedicated phone lines during busy periods to support families navigating the system.

    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.