Children are being neglected when it comes to transport policy and provision, a new report by think tank the Independent Transport Commission has claimed.

The report authored by social research expert Kris Beuret highlights that independent travel by children is falling and is often actively discouraged, and makes recommendations aimed at reversing this trend.

Statistics show that a growing percentage of trips by under 16s are accompanied by an adult – 62% in 2010 compared to 41% in 1971 – while journeys made by walking have declined dramatically. Bus use has also declined and car travel is on the rise.

The report identifies several causes for these changes including longer journeys required to school and, among parents, increased concerns about safety and fear of criticism for allowing children to travel alone. More time spent using computer screens has also been indentified as a contributory factor.

“Only by arming parents, policy makers and children with knowledge about increasing levels of safety and public transport options, can we begin to tackle habits and attitudes at a young age that have a profound impact on behaviour in later life,” said Kris Beuret.

The report says there has been a lack of consultation with children about their travel needs and claims that far too much policy is developed based on the views of parents and teachers. It adds that better data on child travel is needed alongside evidence based road safety programmes.

The author also calls for better transport design for children including family carriages on trains as well as more training and marketing for both transport staff and child passengers.

Kris Beuret added: “By following these recommendations we can encourage children out of cars, onto public transport and to walk and cycle more, in the process creating a healthier and more mobile population.”

(Photo: Lewis Clarke and licenced for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence)