Review of blue badge charges

Concerns have been voiced about the policy’s effect on blue badge holders visiting Pinderfields Hospital, and Pontefract General Infirmary.

The charges were introduced in July, with critics arguing that NHS appointments may be missed as a result of disabled drivers being unable to afford the charges.

Dewsbury MP Paula Sherriff addressed the Trust’s board last week and told them: “Whilst there are many users of the hospital that have been hit hard by the recent rise in parking charges, I feel it is the blue badge holders who will suffer the most.

“Able bodied patients have the option of walking or using public transport, but many disabled patients do not have this choice and can only access their appointments by car. There is also an increased likelihood they are going to need to access the hospital services more frequently.”

The Trust said it will monitor the number of missed appointments as part of a review of the charges.