Issue - meetings

This report seeks approval for a West London Alliance Eligibility Policy which provides clear criteria for access to transport provision and promotes the adoption of alternatives, including the provision of independent travel training, which reflect the needs of the individual and help to promote greater independence.

(i)         that the WLA Travel Assistance Policy for Young People Eligibility Policy for access to Council-funded transport for pupils in special schools and other learning centres be adopted;

(ii)        that each pupil receiving transport should have their eligibility reviewed annually.

The West London Alliance (comprising Brent, Hounslow, Ealing and Harrow) has formulated a new joint policy on children’s eligibility for travel assistance to be fully in place for implementation in summer 2013.  The report before the Executive sought approval for the West London Alliance Eligibility Policy which provided clear criteria for access to transport provision and promoted the adoption of alternative, including independent travel training, reflecting the needs of the individual. The approach accorded with the Adult Social Care ‘Promoting Independence’ policy agreed in 2012. Councillor Arnold (Lead Member, Children and Families) advised that the policy would provide for a consistent approach across the four boroughs involved. Eligibility would be reviewed annually and scarce resources used wisely.

In response to a question from Councillor Cheese, Councillor Butt (Chair, the Leader of Council) confirmed that the intention of the policy was to standardise provision. The Director of Children and Families replying a question from Councillor Lorber highlighted that the new arrangements introduced an annual review and would help promote independence looking at each child’s individual needs.

RESOLVED:

(i)         that the WLA Travel Assistance Policy for Young People Eligibility Policy for access to Council-funded transport for pupils in special schools and other learning centres be adopted;

(ii)        that each pupil receiving transport should have their eligibility reviewed annually.