Support for Young People in Westmorland and Furness: Enhancing Access to Education
Councillor Janet Battye, the cabinet member for children’s services, education, and skills, has emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by young people in accessing post-16 education and training. Notably, the issue of transport costs has been identified as a significant barrier for many students in the region. Councillor Battye stated, "We fully recognise that many of our local young people face a range of challenges in accessing post-16 education and training and the cost of transport is one of them."
The Impact of Transport Investment
The council believes that strategic transport investment can positively affect the life prospects of young people. By addressing transport-related challenges, the aim is to not only improve educational outcomes but also empower local businesses to develop a skilled workforce that meets economic needs. This vision aligns with broader goals of establishing sustainable growth within Westmorland and Furness.
Details of the Transport Bursary Scheme
In an effort to alleviate transport costs, the area has introduced a bursary scheme tailored for students. Importantly, this bursary does not require means-testing, although households in higher income tax brackets are ineligible. The fund spans various transport options, providing support for bus, train, taxi services, fuel for private vehicles, and bicycles. Councillor John Murray, the cabinet member for transport and regulatory services, expresses enthusiasm: "We are delighted to again be able to offer this support to young people."
Navigating Geographic Challenges
The geography of Westmorland and Furness poses unique challenges for travel, complicating access to training, skills, and educational opportunities. To tackle this, the council is committed to improving infrastructure and connectivity throughout the area. Councillor Murray remarked that initiatives like the bursary scheme could significantly ease travel barriers, ensuring that young people can pursue their educational aspirations without undue financial strain.
Key Updates for the Current Scheme
The latest iteration of the bursary scheme includes several updates aimed at enhancing its accessibility. Students opting for a post-16 "spare seat" through the council’s scheme, priced at £753.93, are now eligible for a grant covering half the expense, amounting to £376.96. Moreover, the mileage rate for fuel support has been adjusted from 13p to 12p per mile, reflecting the Government’s revised advisory fuel rate for smaller petrol engine vehicles.
Prioritizing Vulnerable Groups
This year, priority will be given to specific groups, including students in the first year of a two-year program who previously received the bursary in 2024-25, as well as cared-for children, care leavers, and young individuals with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) enrolled in supported internships. This targeted approach underscores the commitment to supporting those who may face additional obstacles in their educational journey.
Continued Bus Transport Support
One of the notable sustained efforts is the support for the Alston Moor Federation, which will continue providing bus transport for students attending sixth form at New College, Durham during the 2025/26 academic year. This service collects young people from Alston, Nenthead, and several stops along Weardale, ensuring that even those in more remote areas can access vital educational facilities.
Financial Impact of the Program
Last year alone, the bursary program allocated a substantial total of £303,737, assisting 515 individuals in their quest for further education. This funding, in addition to support for the Alston Moor scheme, plays a crucial role in making travel feasible for students pursuing A Levels, BTECs, Diplomas, T Levels, and even degrees across disciplines such as agriculture, engineering, health and social care, English, maths, biology, chemistry, and law.
Real Impact on Families
The financial support provided through the bursary scheme has had tangible impacts on local families. For instance, one family remarked, "It has taken a massive financial burden off of our shoulders. We were worrying how we were going to fund our son’s travel to college every day in Kendal, but having the bursary has meant that we didn’t need to worry. It’s helped us massively and we are so grateful."
Additional Support and Resources
Beyond the bursary scheme, Westmorland and Furness Council offers further assistance for young individuals. Students under 19 as of September 1 from low-income families studying full-time (at least 17 hours per week) may qualify for free post-16 transport if they live more than three miles from their nearest college offering their desired vocational course, contingent upon their parent or carer receiving certain benefits.
The A2B Now Card Initiative
Additionally, the council runs the A2B Now card scheme, designed to provide reduced bus fares for young people aged five to 20 during non-school travel times. Available for a nominal fee of £10 per year, cardholders can travel within Westmorland and Furness for just £1.80 (single) or £3 (return). Should the standard fare be lower, cardholders pay the usual rate instead. Application forms for the A2B Now card can be obtained at local libraries or downloaded online, ensuring accessibility for all eligible youth in the area.
This comprehensive support network illustrates the concerted efforts by Westmorland and Furness Council to enhance educational access for young people, showcasing their commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering a brighter future for the next generation.