Prior information notice - Southwark Council Taxi Framework School transport for children and young people with special educational needs and disability (SEND)

General background of the contracting authority's service requirements:- • SEND taxi services are required for children with special needs and vulnerable young people up to 25 years old. • Between 100 and 150 children and young people will be provided with taxi journeys during school term time (38 weeks) Service users and journeys:- • Children/young people with SEND (Autism and/or medical etc.), • Service users across all groups with mobility problems. • Most journeys for children twice a day, five days per week, but can vary, including some ad hoc. • Majority within normal working hours – 7.00 am – 5.00 pm. • Passenger assistant staff required for majority of journeys MUST be well-trained staff, with empathy, understanding and able to carry out the requirements of the role in a supportive way. Value for Money:- • SEND taxi services is part of a wide range of travel assistance services – this includes council support/training to help individuals travel independently. • Expectation that companies on the Framework will price competitively and suggest a ‘best value’ approach for delivering rounds, for example, suggestions for joining two rounds. Requirements and key points:- • This is an important service for our service users, they need to get to school, college, day centre etc on time! • Taxi services MUST be punctual, fit for purpose. • Taxi drivers must have sound route knowledge • We expect prompt and courteous communication with taxi companies on the framework. • Our aim is to receive good quality taxi services, competitively priced.