Who can get help
Hackney Council helps children aged 5 to 16 who have special educational needs, a disability or mobility problems, or who can't reasonably walk to school because of distance or safety. The walking distances are 2 miles for children aged 5 to 7, and 3 miles for children aged 8 and over. Some families on low incomes, those choosing a school for religious reasons and parents with disabilities can also qualify. There's limited help for children under 5 with SEND and for some young people aged 16 to 25.
How to apply
- Go to the Hackney Local Offer and use the SEND travel support application form. It's an online form.
- Young people aged 16 and over use a separate application on Hackney's education website.
- Include evidence of your child's needs, such as the EHC plan.
What help you might be offered
- A seat on a school bus, minibus or taxi, with a passenger assistant where needed
- A personal travel budget, so you can take your child to school or arrange it yourself
If you disagree with the decision
Councils in England follow a two-stage review process: ask for a stage one review in writing, usually within 20 working days, then ask for an independent appeal panel. Hackney's decision letter will give its exact deadlines.
Checked against Hackney Council's website in November 2026. Council rules and forms change, so always confirm on Hackney Council's SEND travel page before you apply.