RAC reacts to new NHS England hospital parking charges data

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “Our research shows that almost nine in 10 motorists (88%) think parking in hospitals should be free – this view is even more prevalent among those aged 65 or older (93%).

“If hospitals in England are to continue charging for parking, the least they could do is make it as fair as possible both in terms of charges and ease of payment. The vast majority of people surveyed recently by the RAC would like to see car parks where payment is made on leaving so they don’t have try to guess their length of stay.

“And, considering most of these car parks are run by highly profitable private parking firms, you would think they would be able to equip them with modern machines that give change and accept card payments. Both of these features would help to take away some of the stress about being fined when attending a worrying appointment, receiving treatment or urgently visiting a sick relative.”

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The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic UK brand, and provides complete peace of mind to 15 million UK private and business drivers - whatever their motoring needs. As well as its premium nationwide breakdown assistance service – with an expert branded patrol workforce attending more than two million breakdowns every year – and European breakdown assistance products, it offers a wide range of market-leading products across insurance, legal services, vehicle inspections and service, maintenance and repair. Included in this is the first-of-its-kind nationwide Mobile Mechanics service which brings the garage to homes and workplaces. 

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