Yesterday I received a query from SFE about a taxi allowance being
recommended (for a student with complex mental health and ASD) -
"I am unable to accept the recommendation which has been made in
relation to travel allowance for this student, as this student is brand
new for the academic year 2014/15 we would need to know if they are in
receipt of the high rate mobility allowance in order to review the
travel recommendation. Please can I ask that further information is also
received in respect of this recommendation and once received we can
review the report again. "
I must admit this new guidance passed me by completely! The guidance
states:-
‘Students may be receiving funding for travel assistance from other
Government agencies as well as help with travel costs through DSAs. It
is the Department’s view that to duplicate this provision may in some
circumstances constitute double funding. From AY 2014/15 SFE will ask
DSA students to indicate on their DSA application form whether they are
in receipt of any form of support towards travel costs from other
government agencies or their local authority. This information would
then be used by the needs assessor and SFE in order to assess what
additional help towards travel costs the student needs. Receipt of
another means of support does not preclude a student from receiving
DSAs, however it informs the decision as to what additional help the
student might require.
(See paragraph 32 on calculating travel costs for the use of Motability
cars.)’
Then -
Paragraph 32
‘Generally, where the student has opted to use a mobility element of
their Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment
(PIP) to lease a Motability car, they will be expected to use that car
to attend their institution and travel costs will be calculated using
the AA motoring costs of 29p per mile (as above). Suitable parking
facilities should be arranged by the HEI.’
Best wishes
Ian Francis
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