PRESS RELEASE
Worcester City Councillor Sarah Murray (Liberal Democrat) has launched a public petition calling on Worcestershire County Council to introduce a formal Healthcare Parking Permit scheme — following more than two years of campaigning on behalf of community nurses and care professionals.
The motion, backed by Liberal Democrat County Councillors and set to be debated on 11 September, would ensure verified healthcare staff can park legally in residential areas while delivering urgent or home-based care — including end-of-life support.
“This is a fixable problem that’s been allowed to drag on for too long,” said Cllr Murray. “Nurses and care teams shouldn’t be fined for doing their job — especially when that job is supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”
Healthcare staff using their own vehicles are currently expected to find public parking or risk fines — despite time-sensitive visits and the need to carry medical equipment. Some have paid fines out of their own pockets.
Cllr Murray first raised the issue over two years ago after being approached by a nursing manager in her ward. Since then, she has worked with City Council officers to explore operational solutions and helped secure temporary, informal support, but says the County Council must now deliver a formal, long-term policy.
“I’ve been proud to lead this campaign at City level, but the final decision lies with the County Council,” she said.
“The City is ready to deliver the scheme. Liberal Democrat councillors are backing it. Now we need public support to get this over the line.”
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🖊 Residents can sign the petition here: CLICK TO SIGN THE PETITION
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“Other areas like Oxfordshire and Cornwall already offer permits like these. It’s time Worcestershire caught up.”
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For media enquiries, contact:
Cllr Sarah Murray
Liberal Democrat City Councillor for St Nicholas Ward
📧 sarahmurraylibdem@gmail.com
