A Cumbrian MP has launched a petition demanding affordable transport for school pupils over 16.

Currently, education or training is now mandatory for everyone until the age of 18, but there is no legal requirement for local authorities to provide transport after 16, with MP for Penrith and the Border Dr Neil Hudson saying is essentially penalising those living in isolated areas. 

He is calling on fellow Cumbrians to join him in his campaign to provide the county’s young people with affordable, sustainable, and fair transport.

He heard first-hand from young people in his constituency who have had to make the decision not to go on to the next stage of education or training due to a lack of transport.

He said: “It is really disheartening that those young people who want to pursue courses that will open doors to their future career goals are being boxed into a corner.

“Some pupils have felt that their careers are already being determined as they cannot access the courses they want to follow.

“We should not be asking these young people to be responsible for their own travel, including challenging driving for young drivers on our rural roads.”

To sign the petition, click here.

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