Assisted travel could soon be rolled out for free for young people and vulnerable adults with special educational needs or disability.

People can now have their say on Trafford Council’s proposals to remove charges for the service it already provides to transport eligible people to education or training.

Currently, the service gives travel assistance for children aged two to 16, young people aged 16 to 19 and vulnerable adults across the borough.

Now, the council wants to hear from the public about plans to make that service free for 16 to 19 year olds and those over 25 who have an education, health and care plan.

The authority also plans to improve the appeal process for this age group.

Coun Karina Carter, lead member for education, said: “Trafford Council is proud of the transport support it provides for children, vulnerable adults and young people. I am delighted to note that we are planning to remove the transport charges for 16 to 19 year olds with special educational needs and disabilities in the borough.

“This is absolutely the right thing to do and supports our corporate priority of helping children and young people. I would be grateful if as many parents as possible would take part in the consultation.”

Those working to support those with special educational needs and disability (SEND) welcomed the move.

Elizabeth Stanley, chief vision officer at SEND support organisation Wraparound, said on Twitter: “Super pleased to see that Trafford Council

are consulting on removing charges for 16-19 (25) year olds on Transport. Fantastic special educational needs and disability wine. Hoping other Greater Manchester authorities follow suit.

“If approved this will make such a massive difference to families.”

Amanda Batten, CEO of Contact, a charity that supports families with disabled children, added: “Great to see this, Trafford Council. I was just talking about the awful impact charging can have on families, earlier today. I hope other local authorities follow this example.”

There is currently a pilot running across Greater Manchester, known as Our Pass, which offers free bus travel to 16 to 18 year olds

Further information about the changes and how people can respond to the consultation can be found here: https://trafford.citizenspace.com/children/travelpolicyconsultation/

Trafford Parent Forum is supporting the consultation and will be also be hosting drop-in sessions for parents/carers who have questions about the all age travel assistance policy.

These will be held on the Ground Floor at Oakland House, Talbot Road, Old Trafford, M16 0PQ on:

· Tuesday February 11, 7pm to 9pm

· Thursday February 27, 10am to 12 noon

Another session will also be held at The Life Centre, 235 Washway Road, Sale, M33 4BP on Tuesday February 11, from 10am to 12 noon.