As schools prepare to reopen, the challenge of long commutes looms for approximately 8,000 pupils currently living in temporary accommodation in Greater Manchester. Families like that of Tosin Balogun, a health care assistant, are grappling with arduous travel routines that can extend well beyond an hour each way, impacting both students’ well-being and educational access.
The Balogun family, who were displaced from their home in Gorton three years ago, now face a daunting journey of over an hour from Stretford to Harpurhey. “We used to leave home at 6:30 AM to get to school for 8:15 AM, and sometimes the bus would be full,” Tosin recounted. Her daughter, now 18, and son, 15, both attend Manchester Communication Academy, where they had hoped to find stability.
Despite their desperate circumstances, the Baloguns are ineligible for free transport assistance, which is typically reserved for children living more than two miles from school. With Greater Manchester’s dense urban landscape, it is nearly impossible for families to meet this criterion. Hence, Tosin has been left with two options: either pay for bus fares or change her children’s school.
The situation highlights a broader issue faced by families in similar situations across the region. The Manchester Evening News has called upon Mayor Andy Burnham to introduce a free bus pass for children in temporary accommodation residing more than 30 minutes from school. This campaign has garnered support from eight Greater Manchester MPs, various charities, and numerous residents who have signed a petition advocating for this cause.
In response to the distressing realities faced by families like the Baloguns, Manchester Communication Academy has begun subsidizing bus fares for some homeless children, funded by a £10,000 grant from the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity. This initiative aims to ease the burden of transportation costs and provide some relief to struggling families.
On December 3, 2023, Mayor Burnham expressed empathy towards families affected by these challenges but stopped short of committing to the proposed bus passes. He stated that discussions are ongoing regarding budget considerations and potential interventions to support families in need.
The daily commute for families in temporary housing is not just a logistical hurdle; it also poses significant emotional and psychological stress. The early morning starts and the uncertainty of public transport can create anxiety for both parents and children. As Tosin noted, the chaotic nature of their daily routines often leaves students feeling frazzled before they even reach school.
While the introduction of the Bee Network has simplified ticketing and made public transport more affordable, families are still forced to allocate a minimum of £40 monthly for bus fares. This financial burden is seen by many, including Tosin and the supporting MPs, as an unjust expectation placed on homeless parents striving to ensure their children receive an education.
As the holiday season approaches, the Manchester Evening News emphasizes the need for immediate action to address these challenges. The call for a free bus pass is a plea for fairness and support, as families like the Baloguns navigate the complexities of life in temporary accommodation while striving to maintain their children’s educational opportunities.
The plight of these families serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes to support vulnerable populations, ensuring that no child is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.
