Transport changes from 10 March

We would like to advise of some positive changes within the SEND Transport requests team. From 10 March 2025, we will be changing the application process for SEND travel assistance. From this date, all parents/carers wanting to apply for SEND Travel Assistance will need to do so using our online Citizen Portal. There are many benefits of using our new system and this will help to improve our current service.

How to use the Citizen Portal:

 Some parents may already be aware of the Citizen Portal when previously applying for a school place with the Council. If you do not already have a Citizen Portal login, then you will have to create a new account. You will add your child(ren) to the Citizen Portal first and then apply for SEND travel assistance by clicking the ‘Transport’ button.

We recognise that this is a major change to our current application system but this system will better support our service going forward. It will certainly mean we are able to formulate more comprehensive risk assessment for your child/young person. We have also produced a step-by-step guide for parents on how to apply, which will support the application process.

Get in touch more easily:

In addition to this, we have also listened to the feedback provided by parents/carers and we now have one group telephone number for SEND transport requests. Our new telephone number will be 01782 233737 and this is where you can contact us to discuss any SEND travel assistance applications, appeals, personal transport budgets or parental contributions.

Year 11 and Post 16:

We would like to advise all parents/carers of young people currently in Year 11 or Post 16 & 19 provision that you will need to reapply for SEND travel assistance for the 2025-2026 academic year. Our service will be writing to all parents/carers of young people in Year 11 or Post 16 & 19 provision currently receiving SEND travel assistance explaining how to do this. As soon as you have confirmation of your young person’s placement for the next academic year, please can you apply as soon as possible. Even if you receive a personal transport budget, you will still need to complete a new application.

Parents/carers applying for the first time:

For any parent/carer applying for SEND travel assistance for the first time or due to a change in circumstance, you will need to apply using the Citizen Portal from 10 March 2025 too.

How to apply:

From 10 March 2025, you can apply for SEND travel assistance on the Council’s website by following the link Citizen Portal - Sign in 

How we can help with the new system:

If you have any questions, contact us:

By phone: 01782 233737

By email: transportrequests@stoke.gov.uk