Worcestershire County Council has today voted to support a new Healthcare Worker Parking Permit scheme, following a campaign led by Worcester City Councillor Sarah Murray (Lib Dem, St Nicholas).
The decision comes after more than 440 residents signed a petition calling for fair treatment for community nurses and healthcare staff, who currently risk parking fines while visiting patients in their homes — including end-of-life care visits and urgent interventions.
Cllr Sarah Murray said:
“This is about fairness and common sense. Healthcare workers should be able to spend their time with patients, not worrying about parking fines. I’m proud that today Worcestershire has shown it values the people who deliver vital care in our communities.”
Cllr Mel Allcott (Lib Dem), who proposed the motion, said: “I was proud to bring this motion forward on behalf of healthcare workers and the residents who rely on them. The stories we’ve heard from nurses and carers make it clear that the current situation is unfair and unsafe. This scheme will make a real difference.”
Debbie Handley, a local nursing manager who addressed councillors during the debate, said: “This decision is a huge relief for healthcare workers. It means we can reach patients more quickly and focus on providing care without the added stress of parking fines.”
