What is a Family Led Travel Budget (FLTB)?
A Family Led Travel Budget (FLTB) is money given to parents or carers to help them make their own school travel arrangements. It gives families more flexibility and control over how their child gets to school.
Important: If you drive your child to and from school yourself, this would be considered under Mileage Payments, not FLTB.
What are mileage payments?
If your child qualifies for school travel support, the Council may offer you the option to use your own car. If this is the most cost-effective option, you’ll be paid 45p per mile for the shortest route between home and school.
- You’ll be paid for two journeys per day (to school and back).
- Another adult can drive your child if you give written permission.
- Payments are based on your child’s actual school attendance.
How can you use a FLTB?
You decide how to use the FLTB to make sure your child gets to school safely and on time. Some examples include:
- Paying a family member or friend to help with school runs
- Covering childcare costs for siblings during travel times
- Arranging your own transport (e.g. taxi, car share)
It’s all about what works best for your family.
Who Can Get a FLTB or Mileage Payment?
To be eligible:
- Your child must qualify for school travel support under the Council’s criteria.
- In some cases, exceptional circumstances may also be considered.
- The Council will check if FLTB or Mileage is a cost-effective option. If not, other travel support will be offered.
How much is an FLTB?
The amount depends on the walking distance between your home and your child’s school. The formula is:
Miles × £1 × 4 trips per day
Payments are made in three instalments across the school year:
- August (for the autumn term)
- Easter (for the summer term)
- December (for the spring term)
If your child starts partway through the year, the payment will be adjusted. If your child needs to be accompanied, the return journey is also included in the calculation.
How often is it reviewed?
FLTBs are reviewed every school year, unless agreed for a longer period. As children grow older, they may be encouraged to travel independently—an important life skill that supports confidence and future opportunities.
How are payments made?
If you’re approved for FLTB or Mileage, payments will be made to a direct payment card issued to you.
For full details, see the MKCC School Travel Support Policy Statement (September 2025).