We help children and young people and children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to travel independently to school or college.
How we can help
Independent travel training is free for children and young people who are:
- eligible for transport assistance
- looked after in Leeds
A dedicated travel buddy will join you on public transport to and from school or college. As your confidence and skills grow, your travel buddy will reduce the support they provide until you are fully independent.
Our nationally recognised good practice in independent travel training has previously enabled approximately 2,000 children, young people, and adults to travel independently. This increases life skills, raises self-esteem, and prepares young people for adulthood.
You will receive a tailored travel plan so you can track your progress.
Family reviews
Many young people and their families are pleased with the progress they have made which has led to greater independence and confidence.
"The ITT project has been brilliant to my daughter and the whole family all together. I didn't think that I would ever be able to let my daughter walk alone to school but after the completion of the training I am more at ease now. My daughter's confidence has grown and I am so proud of her achievement, I can't her Travel buddy enough for the support and care she has provided to my daughter".
"I found the project helpful, and I enjoyed the training on the bus to get to college and how to cross the roads safely. I was very nervous about travelling to college using public transport, but after the training I am now capable of travelling to and from college on my own".
Our service is provided by an experienced Open Awards Level 2 accredited team.
Social workers can also refer adults who need help to travel by emailing
travelproject.team@leeds.gov.uk.
How to apply
If you think your child is eligible
after reading the transport policy, you should complete an online application form.
Children and young people of school age between reception and Year 11 (and those attending a SILC post-16) can apply for support using the school travel application form.
Apply for SEND travel assistance for schoolExternal link
Young people aged over 16 who are attending a college can apply for support using the home to college travel application form.
Apply for SEND travel assistance for collegeExternal link
If you cannot use our forms, help is available
If you cannot use our forms, help is available. Email
send.transportapplications@leeds.gov.uk or call 0113 535 1990 and an officer will help you complete the online form on your behalf over the phone, and will advise you of the next steps.
We will aim to contact you within 15 working days of receiving your completed application form.
Follow us on social media
Follow us on Twitter to get the latest information, news and events.
Twitter
Leeds Independent Travel Training team
@ITTLeeds external link
