Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is facing criticism from parents and campaigners across the Cynon Valley over its school transport policies—policies that some are calling short-sighted, unfair, and harmful to children’s health and well-being.
In a controversial move, Labour councillors have scrapped school bus services for children living up to 3 miles from the school, leaving families in one of the most deprived areas of Wales to foot the bill. Now, in a further blow, parents are being told they must supply a medical letter, costing around £ 50- to school to qualify for transport if their child is incapable due to a medical reason of walking up to 3 miles to and from school.
“If pupils attending Special Needs Schools aren’t required to provide medical letters—and rightly so—why should any other child have to?” one frustrated parent asked. “This shouldn’t be a pay-to-prove-your-child-is-vulnerable system.”
The changes mean children may now have to walk long distances to school in poor weather, arriving soaked, cold, and uncomfortable—with no guarantee of appropriate support from schools. “This is not what we expect from a council responsible for child welfare,” another parent commented. “The idea that children could be left to sit in wet clothes all day due to funding cuts is unacceptable.”
Critics have accused the council of putting cost savings before common sense. “This is about priorities,” a local resident said. “Labour has found money for vanity projects but expects parents to fork out for basic access to education. Why do people keep voting for the same councillors who make these decisions?”
The Children’s Commissioner for Wales has also spoken out about the broader issue. In a recent statement, the Commissioner said:
“Children across Wales are facing barriers to education—a basic right. During a cost-of-living crisis and amidst concerns about falling school attendance, it is unacceptable that promised action has not been taken to address ongoing transport challenges.”
Local campaigners are now urging the Council to rethink its priorities and policies. With elections looming, many believe it’s time to demand better from those in power.
“No family should have to choose between paying bills and getting their child to school safely.”
Council Accused of Putting Budgets Before Children’s Health in School Transport Row
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