Decision details

Financial Implications:

At this time we do not know what the final costs will be as the discretionary scheme is uncapped and reimbursement of operators is based on travel patterns of users.  The reduction in cost to the discretionary scheme will have an impact on the costs of the statutory policy on transport for young people in special circumstances.  These will be explained further in the report which accompanies the Cabinet Member decision

Legal Implications:

KCC has a duty to consult on and publish its Post 16 Transport Policy Statement each year.   Whilst there is no statutory duty to provide transport for Post 16 Learners there is a duty to consider applications for assistance with transport and to enable access to education.  The transport policy sets out how KCC will meet this duty and what learners  in special circumstances can expect by way of support.

Equality Implications:

There are no equalities implications that have not been considered during previous consultations on the Post 16 Transport Policy.  The reduction in cost of the 16+ Travel Card to the learner will further reduce barriers to transport which had previously been identified.

Is the matter referred to in your Business Plan or Medium Term Capital Programme?

Yes

The Cabinet Member for Education and Health Reform has agreed tothe adopt the proposed Kent Post 16 Transport Policy Statement