Cuts to School Transport Put Children at Risk – Together We Can Stop It

Tina Collins Save the school transport RCT group

“This campaign is run by parents, for parents. Your voice matters – please take action today.”

“No child should be forced to walk unsafe routes. Help us restore school transport.”

“Together we can make the Welsh Government listen – join us, share, and speak up for our children.”

To all parents, guardians, and family members,

It is with great sadness that we are compelled to issue this statement.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1211655150190004

About Us

Our campaign was initiated in February 2024 by three parents from the Aberdare area. We came together in a councillor’s office to discuss concerns regarding school transport. Our founding members include Laura, a single mother of two affected children, who faces significant stress in balancing work and ensuring her children’s transportation to school. Kayleigh, another founder, has two children, one of whom has medical needs requiring direct transport to a comprehensive school 2.7 miles away. Tina, our third founder, has no children affected but is dedicated to supporting those in need.

What We Have Done So Far

Our efforts began with a petition focused on RCT, accompanied by the creation of a social media page to raise awareness. Despite our initial efforts, we faced a lack of response. Undeterred, Laura conducted a live feed documenting her route, and we initiated public meetings across RCT in June 2024.

These meetings saw a gradual increase in attendance, from zero to thirty participants. In October 2024, we organized a protest outside the RCT cabinet office, which garnered coverage from BBC and ITV Wales news. Since then, we have maintained ongoing media involvement. We compiled a comprehensive report based on evidence from students and parents, which was submitted to the RCT Cabinet, councillors, and MPs. Furthermore, we have provided templates for parents to submit complaints to their councillors, headteachers, and MPs.

Our campaign has been supported by numerous councillors, and we are in contact with the Children’s Commissioner of Wales, the Future Generations Commissioner of Wales, and the Children, Young People and Education Committee.

Our Aim

Initially, our campaign focused on advocating for children in RCT affected by the cuts. However, due to the lack of response from the Leader of RCT, the Cabinet, and certain party councillors, we have expanded our aim.

Our new objective is to secure direct transport to education for all students who require it. This goal is rooted in the Learner Travel legislation, which can only be amended by the Welsh Government.

What Parents Need to Do

While voicing concerns on social media is important, it is crucial that parents take action to advocate for their children. We urge parents to:

1. Compile evidence by following the designated routes.

2. Navigate the complaint process.

3. Contact their councillors and MPs.

4. Sign and share petitions.

5. Raise awareness among those not on social media.

6. Attend public meetings for updates.

7. Respond to consultations to voice opinions.

By taking these steps and maintaining collective pressure, we are confident that our efforts will yield results.

Over the past eighteen months, we have dedicated countless hours to this campaign, often at the expense of time with our families.

As non-professionals, we welcome any assistance parents can offer, whether it be sharing information or providing a few minutes of support each day.

With the recent addition of two new members to our campaign, we continue to seek help and support.

Every child deserves to feel safe while travelling to school. Unfortunately, some children have no alternative but to walk, which is particularly concerning given the rising poverty levels. As attendance in schools is crucial for their future, it is essential that we support these students in minimizing stress before arriving at school.

We hope this information has provided a clearer understanding of our campaign and its objectives.

Thank you for your continued support.

Save the School Transport RCT/Wales Campaign