Engaging parents and teachers in compliance

SCC also encourages teachers and parents to be on the lookout for non-compliance – although the SCC Compliance Team always does a full investigation before adding penalty points. These points go against the contract (not the driver) and at 25 points, the contract can be terminated. 

Appealing against contract defaults

SCC takes the stance that contractors should be operating correctly and safely by default. While they accept appeals, they are watertight in their termination process. And, should they need to terminate a contract and re-tender, Staffordshire retains the right to charge the original operator the difference in cost.

Success factors

This 18-month rolling compliance programme ensures that SCC maintains high standards within their home-to-school transport. However, also improves the experience for drivers, passenger assistants (PAs), parents, and children. The council notes that word travels very quickly. Since the scheme was introduced in 2019, they’ve seen a reduction in the number of compliance failures. 

Fortunately within Staffordshire there is enough market competition to allow such a stringent framework. However, it is Staffordshire’s readiness to proactively address concerns that underscores its commitment to excellence in service delivery.