New Low Income Entitlement to Transport

The government has introduced some new rules on school transport to help families on low incomes. These initially apply ONLY to pupils joining secondary school in Year 7 on or after September 2008, and will be ongoing thereafter.

Pupils must be eligible for free school meals, or from families in receipt of maximum Working Tax Credit. Families must provide evidence that they are entitled to the relevant benefits and that the entitlement is current at the start of the school year. Once a low income entitlement is established then it lasts for the whole of the school year even if benefits cease.

The Council will provide free transport to the children from low income families to St Cuthbert Mayne School or the designated selective school for their home address and then any other school within 6 miles of the home address or within 15 miles from the home address for St Cuthbert Mayne School. However to qualify for free transport, the home must be more than 2 miles from the school attended.

Distances are measured using the shortest available walking routes up to 2 miles and the shortest available driving routes over 2 miles for the new low income clause.

Qualifying Benefits for the New Low Income Entitlement to Transport

Qualifying benefits for free school meals

1. Income support
2. Income based job seekers allowance
3. Guarantee Element of State Pension Credit
4. Support under part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999
5. Child Tax Credit BUT not entitled to Working Tax Credit and Annual income does not exceed £15,575.

Or

• In receipt of their maximum level of Working Tax Credit (WTC)

How do I apply for Transport Assistance under this new entitlement?

Application forms will be sent out to all new Year 7 pupils during the summer term.

You can also apply by completing the Low Income Entitlement application form (see Do It Online to the right of this page) and send it back to the address indicated on the top of the form.

Modes of Travel Assistance

When a student is eligible for assistance with travel to school/college, it is a matter for the Council to determine the mode of assistance which is safe, secure and cost effective. Arrangements include public bus route, ferry, contract coach, contract minibus, contract taxi, parental petrol acknowledgement, walking escort.

Please note that photos are required for travel passes. Please visit the Modes of Travel page for further information

What if I am not entitled?

An appeal can be made on the council’s decision on entitlement to assistance. Please visit the School Transport Appeals page for further information and guidance.

You can also contact Stagecoach to enquire about the tickets they offer.

Related Documents

Tips 6 Booklet - Home to School and College Transport Policy Information for Parents and Schools regarding school transport in Torbay, including entitlement and operational procedures. Last updated: 14/05/2008 (396 KB)

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