Waltham Forest: Post-16 SEND Travel

Waltham Forest Council has updated how young people aged 16+ apply for SEND travel assistance: applications must be submitted via the council’s online form. This change is part of the council’s ongoing move to digitise services and streamline travel support for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

What’s changed (quick summary)

Online application only: From the council’s notice, paper applications were due to cease and the online Travel Assistance Application is now the primary route for applying. Parents and carers should use the portal to submit applications and supporting evidence.
Post-16 eligibility note: Travel assistance for those aged 16+ is available under specific conditions (e.g., being in full-time college, distance from home to study place, household benefits, or a post-16 travel need on a transition plan). Cheque the council’s Home to School Travel Assistance policy for full eligibility rules.
Short-term delays warning: The council has also advised of temporary transport delays in the borough (local roadworks and traffic), which may affect scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs – families and providers should plan accordingly.

What the online-only process means for families

Register and apply online: Create an account on the Waltham Forest portal and complete the Travel Assistance Application. Upload any medical or professional reports as evidence – the council will use these when carrying out transport and medical risk assessments.
Submit supporting documents: All documents should be uploaded through the online form as the council’s submission protocol requires supporting evidence to be sent digitally.
Know the eligibility rules: Post-16 travel support is discretionary but governed by clear criteria (distance, course location, benefits, and transition statements). If your child meets the criteria, the council can provide bus passes, escorts, mileage support, independent travel training, or accessible minibuses.
Appeal process: If you disagree with a travel decision, use the council’s review form and email it within the stated timeframe – the policy spells out time limits and next steps for appeals.

Practical tips for parents and carers

Start the online application early and gather reports from healthcare professionals or your child’s education team to support the case.
Keep proof of submission and any outcome letters – you may need them for appeals.
If roadworks or local traffic are causing delays, contact the council or school transport team to confirm pick-up times and contingency plans.

What this means for transport operators and private hire services

Local operators and private-hire firms should be aware of the council’s move to online applications and the potential for temporary schedule disruption due to roadworks. Families waiting for council assessments or appeals may require reliable interim transport — licensed private-hire companies can provide short-term, fully documented support for school runs, college travel, or route training sessions. Operators should ensure DBS cheques, escorts (if requested), and clear communication with families and schools.

Helpful links & documents

Waltham Forest – Transport and getting around (Local Offer).
Travel Assistance Application (Council portal).
Home to school travel assistance policy (detailed PDF).
Notice on digitised application forms / submission protocol.

Need interim transport while your council application is processed?

Jimac Cars offers licensed, professional private-hire services across London for school runs, college journeys, and bespoke travel support for young people with SEND.