Throughout my 17 years of working in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), I have dedicated myself to supporting children, young people, and adults with a variety of needs and abilities. My mission has always been to empower these individuals to gain independence, confidence, and readiness for adulthood and employment.

An essential part of this mission involves facilitating their access to transportation for education and work opportunities. However, charging carers and support staff to accompany these individuals on public transport is counterproductive. It creates a financial burden and limits the ability of those who are tasked with helping SEND passengers achieve their fullest potential.

In the UK, carers provide invaluable support to vulnerable members of our community, yet they are often low-paid. The cost of travel can quickly add up, creating an unfair obstacle that restricts the movement of both carers and those they care for. Research shows that financial barriers to public transport can decrease participation in essential activities and lead to increased social isolation among SEND passengers.

Numerous cities around the world have successfully implemented free public transport for carers accompanying vulnerable individuals. Cities such as Los Angeles and Paris have recognized the importance of providing free transportation to support staff, enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for development for those they assist. It's time for the UK to follow suit.

I urge the Department for Transport and local councils across the UK to implement policies that waive public transport fees for carers supporting SEND passengers. This change would not only benefit the carers by easing their financial strains but also significantly improve access and quality of life for the people they care for. By making this adjustment, we can build a more inclusive, supportive, and fair society.

Please, join me in this fight for equality and accessibility. Your signature can help make public transport free for carers supporting SEND passengers, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their needs, can access the world around them without unnecessary barriers. Sign and share this petition to show your support for this vital cause.