We will recommend the most appropriate support available to you when you apply for travel assistance.
If your application is successful you could be offered one or more of the following forms of travel assistance, depending on your circumstances.
Mainstream travel
Mainstream travel is where your child travels to school on one of our mainstream school transport routes. This can include both public transport routes and Dorset council provided transport. Depending on the number of students requiring transport on a specific route, vehicle sizes can range from large buses to small taxis.
Personal travel budget (PTB)
A personal travel budget (PTB) is where Dorset Travel provide you with an allowance each month which you can use to organise your own transport. You can use this to support with the cost of your child's transport, including:
- fuel
- taxis
- bus passes
- other expenses
Independent travel training
Independent travel training is an amazing opportunity for a young person to gain skills for travelling independently. One of our trainers works with your child on a 1-to-1 basis to support them to use public transport to get to their educational provision.
Contact the SEND Travel Team if you’d like more information on independent travel training.
Shared vehicle
Shared vehicle means that your child travels to and from their educational provision with other passengers who are eligible for SEND travel assistance.
Shared vehicle with shared passenger assistant (PA)
Shared vehicle with shared PA means that your child travels to their educational provision with other passengers who are eligible for SEND travel assistance. The PA supports your child and others on transport.
Shared vehicle with 1-to-1 passenger assistant (PA)
Share vehicle with a 1 to 1 PA means that your child travels to their educational provision with other passengers who are eligible for SEND travel assistance. They are supported by a 1 to 1 PA when travelling.
Single traveller
Single traveller means that your child does not travel with other students.
Single traveller with 1 to 1 passenger assistant (PA)
Single traveller with 1 to 1 PA means that your child does not travel with other students. A 1 to 1 PA supports your child and ensures their safety when travelling.
SEND travel claim
This is where Dorset Travel reimburses your expenses when taking your child to and from their educational provision.