‘Charging to park at hospitals was an unnecessary financial burden on families and those needing treatment at a difficult time’ – Health Secretary Shona Robison
Scrapping car parking charges at most of Scotland’s hospitals has saved patients, staff and visitors more than £25 million over the past seven years, the Scottish Government announced today.
Since 31 December 2008 parking has been free for patients, visitors and staff at hospitals where charges had previously applied – although charges remain in place at PFI hospitals including Edinburgh’s Royal Infirmary.
Health Secretary Shona Robison said: “The founding principle of our NHS is to have services that are free for everyone – services that are not out to make profit. That’s why I’m delighted that getting rid of car parking charges has saved patients and staff over £25 million.
“Charging to park at hospitals was an unnecessary financial burden on families and those needing treatment at a difficult time.
“Health boards are also continuing to work hard to put plans in place for addressing potential increases in demand, the promotion of greener transport and the possible misuse of spaces by commuters or others.
“I would like to be able to abolish charging at the three PFI car parks too but, unfortunately, these facilities are locked into long-term contracts with operators which precede this Government. We continue to keep these under review.”
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