Do you get the right school transport?
3 mins read
Wednesday 30 September 2026
This advice applies in England only.
At the start of term, our helpline has been busy with calls about education, including questions about transport.
Families are facing a range of problems. From being told their child is not eligible for transport, to being offered transport that isn’t suitable. Changes to transport arrangements once a child turns 16, or transport not in place at the start of term. Concerns about safety and reliability, and families having to go through lengthy application and appeals processes.
We know this can add a lot of stress and pressure to families. Our transport research found that 40% of parent carers had reduced their working hours or given up work because of transport, while many families also reported increased financial difficulties and stress.
What happens at 16?
Transport can become particularly difficult when a young person reaches 16.
Young people over 16 do not have the same legal rights to free transport as children of compulsory school age. Different arrangements apply, and transport provision is at the discretion of local authorities. Families may also be asked to contribute towards the cost.
We know many families, previously happy with their home to school transport, have a much more limited offer at 16. It might be a personal transport budget, and the family must arrange their own transport or a bus pass even when the young person cannot travel independently or use public transport.
What can I do about my transport?
First, check your local authority’s transport policy on their website, and look at Contact’s online information.
If you’ve been told your child isn’t eligible, or you don’t think the transport offered is suitable, your local authority should have a complaints or appeals process. This should be published alongside its transport policy.
If you’re unhappy with the outcome of your appeal, you may be able to complain to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. You can complain if you think the local authority did not follow the correct process or that its decision was not in line with the law. The Ombudsman’s school transport focus report also includes examples of cases it has investigated.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to challenge a local authority decision through judicial review. This is a complex legal process, so it’s important to get independent legal advice before considering this.
You can also get in touch with your local MP. They are there to represent their constituents and can often help raise the issue on a local and national level.
Get advice
Our online information about home to school transport covers England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It includes information about eligibility, your rights and what you can do if you disagree with a transport decision.
In England, we also have specific information about transport for young people over 16.
Our helpline education advisers are here and can provide information and advice and help you to understand your next steps.