A NEW travel policy for children with special educational needs could be introduced in Sheffield which may reduce the reliance of some youngsters on taxis and minibuses.
Sheffield Council wants to redraw its formula for dealing with the transport needs of children who do not attend mainstream schools.
In the past, travel arrangements introduced for children aged five have not been updated even when they have becom
e teenagers.
The council believes that as circumstances change, the travel arrangements should be reviewed to provide the most appropriate support.
Every child with special educational needs already has an annual review and the council is now proposing to include travel arrangements in that meeting.
Councillors will have to decide on whether to make the change, but if it goes ahead it could mean some older youngsters travelling independently by public transport rather than relying on being picked up by taxi or mini-bus.
Arrangements would be tailored to suit each child, as a result of discussions with parents and carers.
Council spokesman for children's services and learning Coun Andrew Sangar said: "There are some young people who are benefiting enormously from independent travel training. However, there are a number of young people who will always need an intensive level of support."
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