Monday, 10 September 2018

Outrage after traffic wardens slap ambulances for cancer patients with tens of thousands of pounds in 'ridiculous' fines

Traffic wardens have been slammed for slapping ambulances for cancer patients with £130 parking fines outside a major London hospital.

Private ambulances and cars are being given the penalties for leaving their vehicles near University College Hospital's Macmillan Cancer Centre in Bloomsbury while they change shifts or take in non-emergency patients.

The vehicles are leased by security firm G4S, which has a private transport contract with the hospital, and it is understood the firm has racked up tens of thousands of pounds in tickets in nearly two years.

According to the Evening Standard, bosses at the firm have labelled the fines 'ridiculous' and say they 'lack common sense'.

G4S transport services managing director Russell Hobbs told the Standard their vehicles were 'vital' and it was 'essential' to park close to the hospital because many patients are unable to use public transport.


Meanwhile an ambulance driver told the paper they are often hit while helping vulnerable patients in wheelchairs access the hospital and they can get 'three or four' tickets a day on vehicles.

The driver said: 'It's been going on for a couple of years. They don't let us have five minutes' peace before they give a ticket. There's nowhere to put vehicles.'

He added: 'Often we have to park outside and help the patients in wheelchairs get to their appointments and then come back outside to find a new ticket. 

'They are vulnerable people and some are at the end of their lives. It's ridiculous.'

Drivers do not have to pay the tickets themselves, with the penalties passed on to the firm. 

MailOnline has contacted Camden Council and the hospital for comment. 

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