Walking Bus

£15 million jump start for walking to school announced (22/11/06)

Thousands more children around the country could soon be going greener in getting to school, after Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander announced a £15million boost for walking to school initiatives today.

The new investment is mainly aimed at setting up 'walking buses', and could mean the creation of thousands of new ones around the country. Schools can also apply for grants to support other walking to school initiatives.

The money will provide grants for primary schools for up to 3 years. They could use it to:

* pay a teaching assistant to act as 'walking bus' co-ordinator/organiser who would also promote the scheme to parents and seek support from local businesses

* provide incentives to children for taking part in the buses

* provide an escort for a 'walking bus' for an initial period;

* pay the cost of assessing 'walking bus' routes.

Please note: the deadline for applications has now passed (31/01/07).

• How to set up a 'walking bus' 
  A 3-page step-by-step guide on how to set up a walking bus, who schools can approach for help in doing so, and where they can find further on-line guidance.

Dudley MBC's Road Safety and Travel Awareness Team are available to offer advice and support thorough out the application process, and to assist in the development of schemes. A Walking Bus protocol has been produced by Dudley MBC, in conjunction with Dudley Public Health.

Contact Linda Tromans (School Travel Advisor)
01384 81 5431
linda.tromans@dudley.gov.uk

What is a Walking Bus?

It’s a fun interactive way for children to walk to school as a group under the supervision of at least two volunteers. By working on a rota system it can save parents / carers having to take their children to school every day.

Informal  Bus.

You could set up an informal ‘bus’ with friends and neighbours. Taking turns to walk your children to school or walk with your friends.

Park and Walk.

If you need to use your car  try parking further afield and walk for the last few hundred metres.

What are the benefits?

• It provides a safe and environmentally-friendly way for children to travel to school

• Children can develop their road sense

• It encourages children to start the walking ‘habit’ which we hope will stay with them for the rest of their lives

• It helps promote independence and develops social skills

• Through daily exercise people’s general fitness levels can be increased

• It encourages walking, which can reduce traffic and fumes near the school