Travel Training – Helping Young People Travel Safely and Independently 

Travel Training is a free support service from Herefordshire Council that helps young people with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) learn how to travel independently and safely, whether by walking, using public transport, or navigating familiar routes. 

What Is Travel Training? 

Travel Training is a structured learning programme delivered by trained Travel Trainers. It helps young people build the skills and confidence to travel on their own to places like: 

• School or college 

• Work placements 

• Clubs or leisure activities 

Training may include: 

• Planning routes and reading timetables 

• Using buses or trains 

• Road safety and using crossings 

• Recognising landmarks and way-finding 

• Handling money and tickets 

• Personal safety and awareness 

• Practising journeys with support until confident 

Who Can Use Travel Training? 

This service is for: 

• Young people with SEND who want to become more confident and independent in travelling 

• Those attending school, college, work, or leisure activities who would benefit from support with travel skills 

How Travel Training Works 

Initial Assessment 

• A Travel Trainer meets with the young person, their family/carers, and sometimes school or college staff to assess needs and agree on suitable routes. 

Training Sessions 

• The Travel Trainer accompanies the young person on their journey, teaching each step, from route planning to using transport and staying safe. 

Gradual Independence 

• Training is tailored to the young person’s pace. As confidence grows, they begin to travel more independently. 

Benefits of Travel Training 

• Greater independence and confidence 

• Safer travel to and from school, college, or other destinations 

• More opportunities for social, leisure, and work activities 

• Development of key life skills: planning, money handling, safety, and navigation 

How to Access Travel Training in Herefordshire 

Referrals can be made by: 

• The young person or their family/carers 

• Schools or colleges 

• Health or social care professionals 

Contact the Independent Travel Training Team: 

📧 Email: traveltraining@herefordshire.gov.uk 

📞 Phone: Linda – 07792 880542 | James – 07792 881144 

https://www.talkcommunity.co.uk/transport-travel-and-mobility/independent-travel-training/