Transport business to provide wraparound care for young people

First Steps Together has launched a new transport service, offering a gold‑standard, reliable provision designed to support the round‑the‑clock care of young people. The development meets growing demand for high‑quality, consistent and well‑understood transport for children and young people with additional needs.

The service has been built to the same expectations already in place across First Steps Together’s special schools and soon‑to‑be‑opened care homes. Each minibus provides a safe, structured and supportive environment, making every journey a meaningful part of a learner’s day, wellbeing and development.

Head of Business Nick Ledger said: "Every vehicle includes a trained Passenger Assistant, regarded as a skilled practitioner rather than a standard escort. Staff receive Team Teach Level 1 training, equipping them to de‑escalate situations, support emotional regulation, maintain calm environments and respond sensitively to distressed behaviour."

He added: "This reflects the organisation’s belief that transport plays an important role in each child’s overall wellbeing."

The fleet consists of purpose‑built minibuses designed with comfort, safety and inclusion in mind. Consistent staff, familiar vehicles and space for equipment and sensory needs support predictable routines at the beginning and end of each day, ensuring journeys remain positive, structured and beneficial to every child’s experience.

Because First Steps Together operates special schools and care homes, the transport team forms part of a wider safeguarding and wellbeing framework. Staff share knowledge of learners’ needs, behaviours and the strategies that support them, helping ensure children feel secure, understood and included as part of an extended school day.

This integrated model contributes to calmer journeys, consistent routines and increased reassurance for families.

The service also strengthens access to education, guaranteeing consistent routes, dedicated staffing and clear communication with schools and families. The model is built around the needs of the child, ensuring reliability and continuity throughout the school week.

All drivers complete nationally recognised MiDAS training, covering safe minibus operation, disability awareness and best practice in passenger care. Every team member also completes mandatory training in safeguarding, Prevent, GDPR, first aid, health and safety, mental health awareness, equality and inclusion and behaviour awareness, helping create a shared culture of professional care.

For enquiries about the service, please get in touch through our contact us page.