Petition Hampshire Council to restore funding for post-16 transport

16

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The Issue

The recent cuts to post-16 transport funding by Hampshire County Council have left my family, and numerous others, in a difficult position. Like many parents, I believed that the transition from school to further education would be supported by the local council, but these unexpected changes have left us struggling to manage the additional costs and logistics.

In Hampshire, the landscape is vast with distances that are not always walkable or well-served by public transport. The funding cuts have resulted in fewer subsidised transport options for post-16 students, meaning many families now face financial strain to ensure their children can access the education they deserve. This is not just a personal struggle for us, it's a community-wide issue affecting countless families who rely on affordable transport to facilitate their children's education.

According to "Hampshire County Council’s own data, approximately 18,000 students are enrolled in post-16 education across the county, and a significant percentage of these are unable to fully participate in their studies without reliable transportation options. For those living in rural areas, the nearest college or sixth form can be miles away, often impossible to reach without a car.

Education is a fundamental right and the government has a responsibility to make it accessible to all, regardless of a family's financial status. The absence of sufficient transport funding equates to an unequal opportunity for learning and personal development, disadvantaging those who are the future of our society. By restoring the post-16 transport funding, Hampshire County Council would not merely be providing logistical support but also fostering an inclusive educational environment that empowers young people to pursue their aspirations without limitations.

We urge the Hampshire County Council to reconsider their decision and reinstate the funding for post-16 transport immediately. This change would ensure that every student has an equal chance to achieve their educational goals and build a brighter future. Your signature can make a difference. Please sign this petition to stand with us in advocating for our children's right to education.

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