Getting to school or college can look different for every child and young person. Some make a short journey on foot, by bike or by bus, while others need to travel further or require additional support to access education.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is inviting children and young people, parents, carers, schools, colleges and the wider community to help shape the future of travel support across the area.
A public consultation has launched on proposed updates to the council's Home to School Travel Support policies, which include proposals to promote travel skills, greater independence and prepare children for adulthood where appropriate.
Proposals also include clearer information about eligibility, travel support options and decision-making, Independent Travel Training for some children and young people, greater use of Personal Travel Budgets for Post-16 learners where appropriate.
Views are also being sought on the potential impact of any future increase in Post-16 travel contributions.
For many families, there may be little or no change to current travel arrangements. Support will continue to reflect individual needs and circumstances and feedback will help inform future recommendations.
Juliette Blake, Interim Corporate Director of Children's Services at BCP Council, said:
The views of children, young people, families, schools and colleges are really important to us, that's why we're asking everyone to tell us what they think of the proposals before any decisions are made.
"That's why we've also created a dedicated survey for children and young people so that their experiences and views help shape future travel support across BCP.
Representatives from Parent Carers Together Forum will be available at the drop-in events alongside council officers to answer questions and support families taking part in the consultation.
Councillor Richard Burton, Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People, Education and Skills, said:
Getting to school or college is about much more than transport. It's about helping children and young people access education, build friendships and take part in everyday life.
"For some young people, developing confidence and travel skills can be an important step towards greater independence and preparation for adulthood.
"At the same time, we recognise that many children and young people will continue to need specialist transport and additional support.
"That's why it's so important that families, children and young people take part in Home to School Travel Support consultation.
Have your say
The consultation runs from midday on Tuesday 8 September until midday on Wednesday 7 October 2026.
People can take part by:
Completing one of the online surveys.
Taking part in the dedicated Children and Young People's Survey.
Attending a drop-in event.
Joining an online information session.
Requesting a paper copy of the survey from their local library.
Consultation Events
People can speak directly with council officers at a series of face-to-face and online events.
Bournemouth Library Wednesday 23 September, 2pm to 5pm
Northmead House, Creekmoor, Poole Thursday 24 September, 2pm to 5pm
Christchurch Library Friday 25 September, 2pm to 5pm
Online Information Session
Wednesday 23 September, 6pm to 7pm
If you are unable to attend the online session, a recording will be available on the consultation webpage.
Find out more, book the online session, and take part: haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/schooltravel
