Learning to travel independently can be a vital step in developing overall confidence and life skills as part of Preparing for Adulthood, for young people with special needs. At Bath and North East Somerset Council, we believe that independent travel is a valuable skill which can give young people the confidence not only to travel independently, but to develop transferable skills such as using money, reading timetables, communication skills, journey and time planning.
Working towards travel training can therefore develop confidence to open up a whole new independent way of life for young people. B&NES Council offer this service to B&NES schools, using a highly reputable service called B&NES Travel Support provided by WSUN, who use proven and effective travel training techniques.
Eligibility criteria:
- in receipt of Education, Health and Care Plan from Bath and North East Somerset Council, at Year 9 upwards at B&NES schools (including those in transition to college), usually in receipt of B&NES LA transport or applying for this in transition to college.
Application process
- Initially the school identifies young people; tutors or SENCOs works with parents and young people to flag up a desire and need to access the service.
- Local Authority reviews applications and flags up to B&NES Travel Support, who contact school staff to discuss requirements for Annual Review attendance from Year 9 up, to discuss and present the service in accordance with need.
- If attendance at Annual Review is not required, travel trainer may meet parents and young person separately to conduct assessment.
- If at Annual Review an assessment is agreed, B&NES Travel Support staff will arrange to meet with young person at school or home address, depending on requirements. Assessments are rigorous around health and safety requirements of the young person.
- At Annual Review, school can agree Independent Travel Training as an outcome on the EHCP.
- Travel training begins, and this can take 10-12 sessions depending on the young person.
- This process is new and will develop as the service needs of school, SEN and young people become apparent. Feedback from service users will be sought, and feedback from any party is welcome.
Please contact B&NES Budgets and Placements Officer on 01225 394159 if there are any queries.