School transport for children with special needs or a medical condition

If you're a student, 16 or over, with special or medical needs and can't use public transport, we may be able to provide assistance with transport.

Your child must attend the nearest school that meets their needs, for example a special school/unit or a mainstream school allocated by the council. If your child's needs can be met at a mainstream school, transport will only be considered to the school nearest to your home address.

If free transport is provided this will be re-assessed on a regular basis.

If you've decided to send your child to a school that isn't their nearest school, free transport won't be provided and you're responsible for making your own transport arrangements and costs.

How to apply for free school transport

Complete the online form if you think your child is eligible for free school transport.

Apply for free school transport

How to appeal

Stage one

You can request a review of the council's decision within 20 working days. You'll receive notification in writing of the outcome within 20 working days. If your review is unsuccessful you can move to stage two.

Stage two

You can appeal against the decision within 20 working days of the review. An independent panel will consider your appeal within 40 working days. You'll receive notification in writing of the panel's decision within five working days of the appeal being considered.

If you still think your application or appeal hasn't been dealt with you can contact the Local Government Ombudsman.

For more information about school transport please email school.transport@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 308770.