Cheltenham NHS Worker Fined Despite Free Night Parking at Hospital

An NHS driver at Cheltenham General Hospital has voiced his frustration after receiving an £80 parking fine despite free parking being available to night-shift staff. The worker, responsible for transporting blood samples, attempted repeatedly to obtain a free parking ticket through the hospital’s parking provider app but encountered persistent technical problems.

Although NHS night staff shift parking is officially free between 7:30pm and 8am, staff are required to display a valid permit and secure a ticket via the Saba parking app. This worker arrived at 9:15pm, displayed his permit, and tried to complete the free ticket process. However, the app would not proceed to the payment screen, preventing him from logging his visit.

Confident parking was free and with no staff or payment machines onsite, he began his 10-hour shift. The next morning, he discovered a parking charge notice issued at 10:54pm, citing failure to obtain a ticket or cashless session. After a stressful appeal process that required extensive documentation, his appeal was rejected. He paid a discounted fine of £40 to avoid further escalation.

The driver expressed confusion over the need to “purchase” a free ticket, suspecting the system may be designed to generate revenue. He also noted that alternative payment methods via the Saba website or phone were not well publicised.

Saba manages over 900 car parks across the UK, including Cheltenham and Gloucestershire Royal Hospitals. While the hospital actively reminds staff to display permits and obtain tickets via the app, it acknowledges occasional technical difficulties and advises staff to contact Saba promptly to resolve issues. Appeals processes are clearly outlined on parking notices.

This incident highlights challenges faced by NHS workers relying on digital systems that may not function smoothly, potentially leading to fines even when staff follow protocols and are eligible for free parking.