Ever since my son turned 16 he is expected to miraculously be able to step outside and travel to school. My beautiful boy is autistic, has learning disabilities, sensory processing disorder and challenging behaviour. He cannot communicate when distressed but he is learning things faster than ever. Right now is the time to support him as much as possible not start taking away his essential provisions that enable him to gain essential life skills that will help him lead an independent and fulfilling adult life. Teaching him skills right now will also mean less pressure on adult social care when he enters the system same goes for thousands of 16+ kids through the country. Please sign and help our kids thrive. They are already at a disadvantage compared to their peers

Thousands of families, overwhelmed with the pressure of caring for their special educational needs (SEN) children, are struggling to ensure their children receive the essential education they need. The current rules state that councils are required to provide home-to-school transport for these children only until they turn 16. Yet, legally, the compulsory educational age for these SEN children is up to 25 years. This mismatch in statutory provision leaves a substantial gap in service for nine crucial years.

Many councils throughout the country have started taking awayb this provision because of this loophole to fill in the budget gaps 

The arduous task of managing transport for SEN children means these families not only bear physical, financial, but also emotional strain. The heartache of understanding that their children, being deprived of their rightful education and learning essential life skills, ultimately affects their ability to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

According to a study by the National Autistic Society, many children with autism spectrum disorder require more time for education. Extending the transport provision to cover those additional years can bridge a critical gap.

By signing this petition, we request the government to extend the compulsory provision of free school transportation for SEN students from 16 years to 25 years. Let us give every child the right to learn, regardless of their learning disabilities or challenges they face. Please sign this petition to make a difference in their lives today!