Families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are facing significant challenges within a struggling system, according to the CEO of an online school. A recent report reveals that Birmingham City Council spent £51 million on SEND transport during the 2024-25 academic year, ranking it as the fourth highest expenditure in the country.
This figure reflects a dramatic increase over five years, with SEND transportation costs rising by £25.1 million. The research, conducted by Green Shoots Market and commissioned by Minerva Virtual Academy (MVA), highlights the heavy financial and emotional toll on families.
Hugh Viney, CEO of MVA, commented, “This report gives a voice to families trapped in a failing system and exposes the gruelling reality of SEND transport. For thousands of children, the daily journey to school is a source of chronic anxiety, sensory overload, and deteriorating mental health, leaving them exhausted before learning even begins.”
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Viney emphasized that the rising transport costs stem not only from increased needs but also from systemic inefficiencies that often disadvantage families. Local authorities are legally required to provide free school transport to certain groups of children, including those with SEND and those living more than three miles from their school.
Nationally, the number of pupils with SEND has surged by 44% over the past nine years, while spending on their transportation has increased by 204%. Home-to-school transport for SEND pupils now accounts for nearly 5% of local authority education budgets—more than double the proportion from a decade ago.
“The report raises serious questions about council spending, especially concerning procurement practices and value for money,” Viney added. “Instead of pouring vast sums into taxi services, including council-owned providers, we should explore alternative education models for children who are out of mainstream schools or struggling within them.”
A spokesperson for Birmingham City Council responded, pointing to the city’s status as Europe’s largest local authority and the corresponding scale of service required. “It is not surprising we support more SEND pupils with transport than other councils. Demand has grown across the board, as more families become eligible for support,” they said.
The council currently assists approximately 6,000 pupils with travel aid, including those from lower-income families. They also noted efforts to improve procurement processes and reduce costs over the past 18 months, aiming to deliver better value for public funds.
In addition, Birmingham City Council has invested in independent travel training programs designed to help SEND students use public transport confidently, fostering greater independence as they prepare for adulthood.