A school taxi contract in Nottingham has been terminated after safeguarding concerns were raised about the transport of a 13-year-old girl with disabilities.
Parent Raised Safeguarding Concerns
The pupil’s mother repeatedly flagged issues with the standard of care provided by the taxi company responsible for school transport. She claimed her daughter, who requires specialist support, was not being adequately safeguarded during journeys.
Following these concerns, the local council carried out an assessment and decided to end the contract. Officials stated that the safeguarding risks identified were too serious to ignore.
Council Responds to Safeguarding Failures
The council confirmed the contract cancellation was made “in the best interests of the child’s safety and wellbeing.” It is now working to secure a new provider capable of meeting the required safeguarding and disability care standards.
The girl, referred to in reports as “Lottie,” has relied on school transport for her education. Parents have urged the council to act faster and put in place stronger checks to ensure children with additional needs are properly protected.
Wider Issues in School Transport
This case highlights ongoing concerns around the outsourcing of school transport contracts across the UK. Key issues include:
- Ensuring all drivers and operators hold the correct enhanced DBS checks.
- Mandatory safeguarding and disability awareness training for drivers.
- Clear accountability measures so that complaints are investigated swiftly.
Advocacy groups say that safeguarding must remain at the heart of any school transport service, especially for children with additional needs.
Next Steps
The council is now reviewing its procedures to strengthen contract monitoring and prevent similar safeguarding lapses in the future.
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