Have your say on home to school travel assistance in Cheshire East

Parents, carers, young people and residents are being invited to share their views on proposed updates to Cheshire East Council's home to school travel assistance arrangements.

A public consultation will run from 16th October to 4th December, giving people the opportunity to help shape future policy and ensure that the experiences of local families are reflected in decision making. 

The consultation forms part of a review of the council's Compulsory School Age Travel Policy, which explains when travel support is available for eligible children and young people travelling between home and school. 

The review has been undertaken to reflect updated national guidance and road safety assessments. Several proposed changes are included within the consultation, covering areas such as discretionary support for younger children and how travel distances are measured. 

The consultation follows a decision by Cheshire East Council's Cabinet on 8 October to approve a refreshed policy and seek public views on a number of proposed changes before any final decisions are made. 

Councillor Laura Crane, Cheshire East Council's cabinet member for children's services, said:

"We know how important travel arrangements are for families, and we want to hear directly from those who may be affected by these proposals. 

"While the review reflects updated national guidance and road safety considerations, it is equally important that we understand the lived experiences of children, young people, parents and carers across Cheshire East. 

"This consultation is an opportunity for people to tell us what works well, what challenges they face, and what they think of the proposed changes. Their feedback will play an important role in helping us take a balanced and informed approach before any decisions are made." 

Feedback received during the consultation will be carefully considered and will help inform final recommendations before any changes are implemented. 

Residents can take part in the consultation between 16th October and 4th December by visiting: 

www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/consultations