Make school transport in Suffolk affordable
The Issue
Many working families in Suffolk and Essex rely on school buses to ensure their children get to their educational institutions safely, and on time.
Recent fare hikes by Central Connect across Suffolk and Essex, specifically targeting school routes, have made this inaccessible for families, whilst other groups see significant reductions.
Access to education should be a right, not a privilege that depends on one's ability to pay for transport. The situation is becoming unsustainable for many working parents who have no alternative but to rely on these services due to their own work commitments. It is unacceptable that the financial burden of simply getting our children to school is placed so heavily on parents who already have to manage numerous other expenses.
The reality is that increased school transport costs can lead to absenteeism or place undue financial strain on families, potentially affecting children's education and well-being. According to a survey conducted by the Suffolk Parent/Carer Network, over 40% of families who depend on school transport are experiencing significant financial hardship due to these rising costs.
We propose that the Suffolk County Council take immediate action to cap school transport costs at an affordable rate or, ideally, provide free transportation to all school-age children. Several councils across the UK have implemented such measures successfully. For instance, London provides free bus travel for children under the age of 16, ensuring every child has the opportunity to attend school without financial barriers.
By making school transport affordable or free, we can ensure every child in Suffolk and Essex has access to education, regardless of their family's financial status. This investment in our children's future is invaluable and will foster a more educated and empowered generation.
We urge you to support this petition and help us create a fair and supportive system for all families across Suffolk and Essex. Please sign this petition to show you stand with us in demanding action from the Suffolk County Council and Central Connect. Let's work together to make education accessible to every child.
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The Issue
Many working families in Suffolk and Essex rely on school buses to ensure their children get to their educational institutions safely, and on time.
Recent fare hikes by Central Connect across Suffolk and Essex, specifically targeting school routes, have made this inaccessible for families, whilst other groups see significant reductions.
Access to education should be a right, not a privilege that depends on one's ability to pay for transport. The situation is becoming unsustainable for many working parents who have no alternative but to rely on these services due to their own work commitments. It is unacceptable that the financial burden of simply getting our children to school is placed so heavily on parents who already have to manage numerous other expenses.
The reality is that increased school transport costs can lead to absenteeism or place undue financial strain on families, potentially affecting children's education and well-being. According to a survey conducted by the Suffolk Parent/Carer Network, over 40% of families who depend on school transport are experiencing significant financial hardship due to these rising costs.
We propose that the Suffolk County Council take immediate action to cap school transport costs at an affordable rate or, ideally, provide free transportation to all school-age children. Several councils across the UK have implemented such measures successfully. For instance, London provides free bus travel for children under the age of 16, ensuring every child has the opportunity to attend school without financial barriers.
By making school transport affordable or free, we can ensure every child in Suffolk and Essex has access to education, regardless of their family's financial status. This investment in our children's future is invaluable and will foster a more educated and empowered generation.
We urge you to support this petition and help us create a fair and supportive system for all families across Suffolk and Essex. Please sign this petition to show you stand with us in demanding action from the Suffolk County Council and Central Connect. Let's work together to make education accessible to every child.
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Petition created on 3 September 2026