5th May 2023

Dear Parents/Carers

We share with you the consultation letter detailing proposals from the local authority on bus travel for those who have to pay for their pass. We encourage you to complete the consultation document which can be accessed via the link within the letter. The consultation closes at midnight on Tuesday 30th May. Any changes that take place will come into effect from September 2024.

As a school we recognise the need for a review and support many of the proposed changes. Whilst we understand the need to review the cost of transport and the impact of inflation, the significant increase from £600 to £1,000 I believe is unreasonable from one year to the next. The local authority had a responsibility to annually review and adjust costs in line with inflation. They admit they have not done this over the last 10 years hence their reasoning for the significant increase from 2023/2024 to 2024/2025. The increase from one year to the next is significantly above inflation.

We have written to our MP, the Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris (chris.heatonharris.mp@parliament.uk) and I am seeking a meeting with the local authority.

Can I strongly advise you to read the letter and any linked documents and complete the online consultation survey.

Yours sincerely

Ms P Hammond

Headteacher