PARENTS concerned about proposed changes to school transport in Suffolk are being invited to an event in Lowestoft next week amid fears that many children could lose out.

A public consulation is currently under way on Suffolk County Council's plans for a major shake-up of its transport for schools, post-16 education and pupils with special needs.

The changes will have an impact on all children reliant on free or subsidised transport to reach their school college or training, and people have until the end of March to have their say.

With many families in Waveney likely to be affected by the changes, the Suffolk Parent Carer Network has organised an event on Tuesday at the Kirkley Centre, in London Road South, Lowestoft.

It wants parents to voice their concerns so it can ensure people's views are properly reflected.

'Some parents are being told that they will have to make their own arrangements for getting their children to school,' a network spokesman said. 'One parent has been told they will have to get their two children to Warren School by their own means, another has been told they will have to pay for their son's transport and others have been told they will no longer get the transport they currently have.'

The spokesman added: 'There is also the worry that the passenger assistants will be cut... while some parents are having to appeal to try to keep the transport for their children.'

l The event takes place from 12.30-2.30pm and it will be informal, with a chance to voice concerns, seek advice and speak to other parents. For more information, ring 01473 832971.

l To take part in the public consulation, visit: www.suffolk.gov.uk/hometoschooltransport2011