Parents in Stockport have accused the local council of discrimination after changes to school bus pass eligibility left their children without free transport to a Catholic school. The families, from Edgeley, have sent their children to St James Catholic High School in Cheadle Hulme, but under new rules they are not entitled to free passes because there is an alternative school within three miles walking distance.
Stockport Council says it took the 'difficult decision' to withdraw free bus passes for faith school pupils due to financial pressures of £10 million. The policy, effective from September, applies only to new Year 7 students, with exemptions for low-income families. However, parents argue it penalises those seeking a Catholic education and shows 'utter disrespect' of their faith.
Pam Hinson, whose son Aidan attends St James, said: 'There are schools nearer that are not Catholic, but I had a Catholic education and I want Aidan to have a Catholic education.' She added that the monthly bus ticket costs £35, placing a financial strain on families. Helen Blane, another parent, said: 'We have not got a choice to send them to a non-Catholic state school, that goes against all our beliefs.'
Stockport MP Navendu Mishra has backed the parents, urging the council to reconsider. He said: 'Families should not be penalised because they have taken the decision not to send their child to the nearest local authority school.' The council, however, maintains the policy aligns with its statutory responsibilities and other local authorities across the country.
