Better transport and independence training for teens with disabilities

Plans to provide better transport services for teens with disabilities and from low-income backgrounds have been approved by Herts County Council.
School travelSchool travel
School travel

The agreed changes to the county’s transport policy for 16 to 18 year olds aim better use of resources and provide support for those who need it most.

The council’s cabinet member for enterprise, education and skills Chris Hayward said: “I’m pleased that there is overwhelming agreement to the county council’s pledge to support those in most need such as those young people with learning difficulties or disabilities and those on low income.

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“We will assess transport needs on an individual basis for families on low income or students with learning difficulties or disabilities.

“We are introducing new support to help students with learning difficulties or disabilities gain the skills and confidence in travelling independently and I’d urge students who find travelling on their own difficult to find out more.

“This innovative programme will support the student getting around, as they prepare for adulthood – it’s important that young people do not miss out on gaining these essential travel skills.”

A new ‘Getting There Travel Training Programme’ scheme will also be funded by the local authority and will provide free training to individual students to allow them to practise their journeys alongside a ‘travel buddy’.

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The plans, made in response to new special educational needs and disabilities reforms, involve the council working closely with Hertfordshire’s further education colleges.

As well as the travel training, provisions for work experience, supported internships and training in independent living will also be offered.

The recommendations were based on feedback from a robust consultation exercise which took place during the summer term this year.

The plans affect students in full-time education and training aged between 16 and 18, and up to 19 and beyond if they are continuing a course started before the age of 19.

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Five proposals were put forward, based on the council’s pledge to support families on low income who need most assistance.

A new policy statement will be published early November 2014. This will inform young people in school Years 11, 12 and 13 and their parents about what transport arrangements and support are available.

A Travel Training summit is also being organised for later this term, for professionals working with young people with learning difficulties or disabilities.

More information on the Supported Employment project can be found at www.youthconnexions.org

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