Navigating Croydon's School Travel Assistance

Ensuring that children, especially those with special educational needs, disabilities, or mobility challenges, can safely and reliably travel to and from school is a significant concern for many families. In Croydon, the local council offers a comprehensive range of travel assistance services designed to support parents and carers in arranging their child’s journey, fostering independence and resilience where possible. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for and understanding the travel assistance available in the borough, from eligibility criteria to the various support options and the application process itself.

Understanding Eligibility for Travel Assistance

Before embarking on the application process, it's crucial to determine if your child meets the eligibility requirements set by Croydon Council. These criteria are in place to ensure that assistance is provided to those who genuinely need it, aligning with the council's travel assistance policy. Meeting these requirements is the first step towards securing support for your child's school journey.

Core Requirements:

• Residency: Both the parent/carer and the child must reside within the Croydon borough. This is a fundamental requirement to qualify for local council support.
• Age: The child must be aged between 5 and 16 years old. Travel assistance policies often focus on this age bracket, aligning with compulsory school age.
• School Registration: The child must be registered at a qualifying school. It is important to consult the council's travel assistance policy for a full list of approved educational establishments, as not all schools may be covered.
• Inability to Walk to School: This is a primary determinant. Eligibility often hinges on the child's inability to reasonably be expected to walk to school due to one or more of the following factors:
  • Their special educational needs (SEN).
  • A disability.
  • Mobility problems.
  • The nature of their route to school (e.g., unsafe roads, excessive distance).

  Evidence to support these claims will be required as part of the application process. This typically includes medical statements or letters from relevant professionals.

It is highly recommended that applicants carefully review the full travel assistance policy, which can usually be found in the downloads section of the council's relevant webpage. This policy provides detailed information on all criteria, and any applications that do not meet these requirements will likely be automatically rejected.

Exploring Your Travel Assistance Options

Croydon Council understands that every child's needs are unique. Therefore, they offer a range of travel assistance options, with the council assessing which one is most suitable for your particular situation. While you cannot guarantee in advance which type of support will be offered, understanding these options will help you appreciate the flexibility and scope of the assistance available.

1. Independent Travel Training (ITT)

For pupils who demonstrate the potential to travel to and from school independently, once trained, Independent Travel Training (ITT) may be offered. This is a highly personalised, one-to-one programme designed to equip young people with special needs or disabilities with the skills and confidence to navigate their journeys safely on their own. The aim is to build resilience and foster greater independence, empowering young people for their future.

2. Free Travel on Trams and Buses

Public transport can be a viable option for many. All children under the age of 16 who are in full-time education can travel free on buses and trams within the Transport for London (TfL) network. For pupils aged 16 and 17, travel is available at half the adult rate. Where deemed necessary due to a child's specific needs, the council may offer further assistance with travelling on public transport.

Applying for a Zip Oyster Card:

To take advantage of young person rates, all young people aged over 11 are required to carry a 'Zip' Oyster photo card, which must be swiped for every journey. Applying for this card is straightforward:

• Visit the TfL Photocard website (photocard.tfl.gov.uk).
• Create an account with a valid UK address.
• You will need a recent photograph of the pupil and their passport number to verify their age.
• If the pupil does not have a valid passport, TfL will provide a verification letter that you need to download, print, and take to a London Post Office along with appropriate proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, European Economic Area ID card, biometric residency permit).
• Alternatively, the pupil's identity can be verified by their school, which would need to stamp and sign the verification letter before submission at a London Post Office.

For any questions regarding Oyster cards, the Oyster Helpdesk can be contacted.

3. Personal Transport Budget (PTB)

Where a pupil is eligible for travel assistance and parents or carers are able to provide the necessary support, the council may consider paying them a Personal Transport Budget (PTB). This budget offers families greater flexibility and control over the support they receive, allowing them to tailor arrangements to best suit their child's needs. The current rate is paid at 60 pence per mile from the home address to school, covering four journeys for each day attended.

How a PTB Can Be Used:

The PTB is designed to be versatile, enabling you to choose the most appropriate transport solution. Examples of how you can utilise the PTB include:

• Driving the young person to school yourself.
• Purchasing a travel pass for a parent or a trusted escort.
• Paying for an escort or travel buddy service.
• Contributing to costs for transport shared with other parents (e.g., carpooling arrangements).
• Purchasing childcare for siblings while you accompany your child to school.

The entitlement is typically paid in advance on a monthly basis and importantly, it will not affect the parent’s, carer’s, or young person’s benefit entitlement. To ensure the child's needs are being met and the budget is being used effectively, the council will monitor the child’s attendance and punctuality at school.

4. Transport Arranged by Council

While many pupils can travel independently or with parental support, a small number of children with complex needs may require travel assistance directly arranged by the council. In these cases, the council's priority when arranging travel is the suitability and safety of the available routes. These arrangements may include dedicated school buses or taxis, and the council will take into consideration any specific escort requirements the child may have. This option provides a tailored solution for children whose needs cannot be met by other means.

Here's a quick comparison of the main travel assistance options:

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Once you've confirmed your eligibility and understood the available options, the next step is to apply for travel assistance. The process is designed to be as clear as possible, requiring specific documentation to support your child's needs.

How to Apply:

Applications can typically be made either online through the council's portal or by downloading and completing a Word document application form. While specific deadlines like the 12th June 2020 mentioned in the source material are past, it highlights the importance of applying well in advance of the new academic year if you require transport assistance for the start of the September term. Always check the current year's deadlines on the Croydon Council website.

Required Documentation:

Upon receipt of your completed application form, the council may request additional documentation to fully assess your child's needs and your eligibility. These documents are crucial for a thorough review:

• Medical Statement/Letter: A statement or letter from the child’s GP or another medical professional, providing evidence that the child cannot travel independently due to their health or mobility.
• Tax Credits Award Notice: If you are in receipt of the maximum level of Working Tax Credits, the most recent copy of your tax credits award notice from HMRC (including part 2) will be required.
• Social Worker Details: If the child is looked after by the local authority, the name of their allocated social worker will be needed.
• Parent's Disability Evidence: If relevant to the child’s travel needs (e.g., if a parent's disability impacts their ability to take the child to school), evidence such as a letter from a GP should be provided.
• Passenger Assistant Requirement: If you indicate that a passenger assistant is required for your child, documentation from the child’s school or a medical professional confirming this need will be necessary.

Submitting Your Application:

Completed forms and supporting documentation can be sent via email or post:

• Email: [email protected] (Samer Adbis, travel assistance case manager)
• Post: Travel Assistance Team, Floor 6, Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA

By submitting the application form, you are agreeing to the council’s code of conduct and their General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) policy, which outlines how your personal data will be handled.

Important Considerations for Families

Receiving travel assistance comes with certain responsibilities and expectations for both the child and the parent/carer. Adhering to these guidelines ensures the smooth operation of services and the safety of all involved.

Code of Conduct for Children on Transport:

The council expects all children utilising arranged transport to adhere to a code of conduct. This is vital for maintaining a safe and respectful environment for everyone. Key expectations include:

• Treating the bus driver and fellow passengers with respect.
• Listening to and following instructions from drivers and escorts.
• Being responsible for their own possessions.
• Respecting the vehicle and not causing damage (parents/carers will be liable for any damage inflicted).
• Taking any litter home with them.
• Reporting any instances of bad behaviour or bullying to the driver or school.

All incidents that occur on transport will be investigated. For minor issues, the passenger transport team and the school will work with you to find a solution. However, serious issues that pose a risk to the health and safety of your child or others can result in immediate suspension from transport during the investigation period, making you responsible for your child’s travel during that time.

Examples of Unacceptable Behaviours Leading to Suspension:

• Physical violence towards staff or other passengers.
• Not remaining seated and wearing the appropriate seat belt.
• Distracting the driver (except in emergencies).
• Bringing weapons (real or replica), knives, drugs, or alcohol onto the vehicle.
• Exiting the vehicle at any point during the journey that is not the agreed drop-off point.
• Failing to follow the requests or instructions of the escort or driver.
• Smoking (this is illegal on all vehicles).
• Eating and drinking (unless medically necessary and pre-arranged).
• Shouting or swearing.
• Throwing things.
• Behaviour that causes distress to other passengers.
• Malicious damage to the vehicle.

Parental Responsibilities:

Parents and carers also have crucial responsibilities to ensure the effectiveness of the travel assistance:

• Punctuality: Children must be ready for collection at the specified time. Transport providers are instructed to wait no more than 3 minutes. If your child misses the transport, it is your responsibility to ensure they still get to school.
• Illness/Early Dismissal: If your child is unwell or sent home at any time other than the regular dismissal time, you must make your own arrangements for their transport home.
• Child Collection: Ensure someone is at home to receive the child at the drop-off point. If no one is at home and the council cannot contact you, the child will be taken to a place of safety, and social services will be informed. It will then be your responsibility to collect your child from them.

Data Protection (GDPR) Policy:

The personal information provided in your application is used solely for arranging travel assistance for your child. Croydon Council has a duty to protect this information and ensure its confidentiality. Data about you, your child, and the services provided will be kept on record and retained for 35 years following the closure of records, in line with common practice.

This information is stored securely, both on paper and electronically, and will only be shared for purposes directly relating to travel assistance. This includes sharing with schools, colleges, transport contractors, and communication systems like ‘Teachers to Parents’. The purpose of this data sharing is to enable Croydon Council to fulfil its statutory duty to provide travel assistance to eligible students. It will not be shared further with anyone else without your knowledge, unless legally required.

By submitting your application, you are giving the council permission to share the information contained within the form for the purposes of considering and arranging your request for travel assistance.

What Happens After You Apply?

The period after submitting your application can be a time of anticipation. Knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns.

Application Review and Outcome:

Croydon Council aims to review your application and contact you within 20 working days to inform you whether travel assistance is suitable for the young person. This timeframe allows for a thorough assessment of the submitted information and any required supporting documentation.

Personalised Travel Plan:

If the application is approved, a personalised travel plan coordinator will make arrangements to meet with you. During this meeting, various travel options will be discussed in detail, and a plan tailored to your child’s specific needs will be developed. This collaborative approach ensures the chosen solution is the best fit for your family.

The Appeals Process:

If your child does not qualify for travel assistance, or if you do not agree with the proposed arrangement, you have the right to appeal the decision. Details on the appeals process can be found within the full travel assistance policy, which is typically available in the downloads section of the council's website. This process provides an opportunity to present your case if you believe the initial decision was incorrect or if there are additional circumstances that need to be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long does it take for an application to be processed?

Croydon Council aims to review your application and contact you within 20 working days to let you know the outcome.

Q2: What happens if my child misses the arranged transport?

Transport providers are instructed to wait no more than 3 minutes at the collection point. If your child misses the transport, it is the parent/carer's responsibility to ensure the child still gets to school. The council does not provide alternative transport for missed journeys.

Q3: Can I choose which type of travel assistance my child receives?

While you can express your preference, the council will assess which of the available options is most suitable for your child's situation based on their needs and the eligibility criteria. They cannot guarantee in advance which type of support will be available.

Q4: What if my child becomes unwell at school and needs to go home early?

If your child is unwell or is sent home at any time other than the regular dismissal time, you must make your own arrangements for their transport home. The council's arranged transport operates on a fixed schedule for school journeys.

Q5: What is a 'Zip' Oyster photo card and why do I need one?

A 'Zip' Oyster photo card is a special Oyster card for young people that allows them to travel for free or at a reduced rate on buses and trams within the TfL network. Children over 11 in full-time education require one to access these discounted rates. It helps verify their age and entitlement.

Q6: Will receiving a Personal Transport Budget affect my benefits?

No, the Personal Transport Budget (PTB) is normally paid in advance on a monthly basis and will not affect the parent’s, carer’s, or young person’s benefit entitlement.

Q7: Where can I find the full travel assistance policy?

The full travel assistance policy, along with other relevant documents like the application form and code of conduct, can typically be found in the 'downloads' section at the foot of the relevant travel assistance page on the Croydon Council website.

Q8: What should I do if my child's behaviour causes problems on the transport?

All incidents on transport are investigated. For minor issues, the transport team and school will work with you to find a solution. For serious issues that pose a risk to health and safety, your child may be immediately suspended from transport, making you responsible for their travel during the investigation. Adherence to the Code of Conduct is crucial.

Navigating the complexities of school travel can be challenging, but Croydon Council's travel assistance programme aims to provide vital support for families who need it most. By understanding the eligibility criteria, exploring the various options available, and following the application process diligently, you can ensure your child receives the necessary assistance for a safe and appropriate journey to school, promoting their independence and access to education.

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