What happened: Councils in England have urged the government to introduce means testing for school transport provided to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). They warn that demand and costs are rising rapidly, with expenses expected to reach £3.4bn by 2030-31.
Why it matters:
- Rising costs could strain local authority budgets and public resources.
- Families of children with SEND may face changes in eligibility for transport support.
MNN Take: Local authorities are seeking significant reforms to manage increasing demand and financial pressures on SEND transport services. Means testing is proposed as a way to target support more effectively amid budget challenges.
Sources: Guardian UK