Isle Of Wight Council Considers £1.5m School Transport Savings

The Isle of Wight Council could review its home to school transport service as part of plans to save more than £1.5 million over three years.

The proposal is among a series of potential budget measures aimed at controlling rising children’s services costs while maintaining outcomes for young Islanders.

A report from the council’s strategic director of children’s services, Ashley Whittaker, says spending is increasing due to growing and more complex needs, alongside rising costs in the care market.

The proposed transport review would look at how the service is commissioned and delivered, ensuring it meets statutory requirements and offers value for money.

It could also involve reassessing current users and tightening eligibility checks, alongside encouraging greater independence through personal transport budgets and independent travel training.

Other proposals include improving the support available to foster carers, increasing the council’s ability to find suitable homes for children and young people, and reducing the use of emergency accommodation.

The council’s children’s services, education and skills committee will consider the report at County Hall at 5pm tomorrow (Thursday).

Councillors are being asked to decide which proposals should progress to further development and consideration by the policy, finance and resources committee, rather than approve the savings themselves.