Does anyone know milage rate or help you get financially if I drive my son to special school rather than mini bus?

[sade1234]

Hi all I am down to putting a name for my son on the parental contribution form and I would like my so to go to a special school about 9 miles away. I don't want him on the buses or taxi they provide just yet he is just 4 and very freaked out when travelling so want to drive him but don't know if can do it financially.

Can you get milage reimbursement or any help if you don't go on the special buses and does anyone known what so I can see whether I even state this school or decide on local mainstream?

In my LA, the mileage rate for parents driving their SEN child to school (over 2 miles for under 8s, and over 3 miles for over 8s; or they can't walk to school at all) was 31p a mile up to 2 years ago.

Here, if your child would be the only one in the taxi, but you drive them yourself, you now get 56p a mile - which I do, and is why I'm not up to date on the ordinary mileage rate! The last time I asked how much taxis get (5 years ago), it was 80p a mile, and a 4 year old would need an escort too. (I imagine they get about the minimum wage).

Generally, if what you are proposing to the LA is the cheapest option for them, they should go for it. The other question is, if you son freaks out, as a part of his disability, then the LA has to make a reasonable adjustment - which might be in this case, that you drive him?

Have a look at IPSEA's website on school transport.