Story perspectives

£3.4 Billion SEND Transport Crisis: Councils Demand Reform

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

England councils warn that means-testing for school transport for families with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) could reach £3.4 billion by 2030-31, with 100,000 more pupils needing transport.
The County Councils Network (CCN) calls for reforms, including a national means-testing policy.
Campaigners warn that means-testing could exclude disabled children from education.
The Department for Education plans a white paper to create a more inclusive education system.

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Story summary

England councils warn that means-testing for school transport for families with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) could reach £3.4 billion by 2030-31, with 100,000 more pupils needing transport.
The County Councils Network (CCN) calls for reforms, including a national means-testing policy.
Campaigners warn that means-testing could exclude disabled children from education.
The Department for Education plans a white paper to create a more inclusive education system.