Cheshire East Council’s consultation and engagement portal

Cheshire East Council is reviewing its current Compulsory School Age Education Travel Policy to ensure it remains fair, sustainable and in line with current legislation and guidance. We want to ensure it continues to support eligible children and young people effectively, while making best use of public funds and meeting our legal responsibilities. 

As part of this process, we are consulting on two proposed changes that could affect eligibility for travel assistance:

• Free travel assistance would no longer normally be provided for children below compulsory school age, including some children in Reception. Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may still receive assistance where exceptional circumstances are evidenced.
• Home-to-school distances would be measured using digital mapping, from where the home property meets the adopted highway to the nearest available school gate or entrance. This could affect whether some children qualify for free travel assistance.

The proposed changes also include updates to reflect current legislation, national guidance and existing practice. These updates explain the policy more clearly and do not change who is eligible for travel assistance.

Your feedback will help the Council understand how these proposals may affect children, families, schools and communities. All responses will be considered alongside equality impact assessments, financial information, relevant legislation and statutory guidance before any decision is made.

Cheshire East Council is consulting on proposed changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme for working-age households. 

The proposed changes are intended to help ensure the scheme remains affordable in the future while continuing to provide support to residents on low incomes. 

Find out more on the proposed changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme and give your feedback here (external link).