East Sussex hospitals offer safe parking environment
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust has once again received the prestigious Park Mark, the Safer Parking Scheme award that recognises car parks with measures in place that actively deter crime and the fear of crime in car parks.
A Park Mark is awarded to parking facilities that pass a rigorous risk assessment conducted by the police and the British Parking Association. The assessments include management and maintenance of the facility, ensuring that there are appropriate levels of surveillance, lighting, signage, and cleanliness. These criteria are known to reduce the opportunity for crime and create a safer environment for the motorist and their vehicle.
Warren Bradshaw, British Parking Association Area Manager said: “I am delighted that Eastbourne DGH and the Conquest Hospital Hastings have once again achieved the Park Mark award as it demonstrates the hard work and commitment to providing a safe environment for users.”
Adam Oxley, Trust Security and Parking Manager said: “We recognise the importance in providing a safe and secure environment for patients, visitors and staff. Crime prevention is a integral part of our strategy and has helped to build an excellent pro-security culture.”
East Sussex Healthcare Car parks with the Park Mark award can use signage featuring the distinctive Park Mark tick, so that drivers know exactly where to go for safer parking. Early adopters of the scheme saw a dramatic drop in vehicle-related crime of over 80% showing that the initiative really does make a difference.
Personal safety and location have been cited as joint priorities when choosing where to park. There are currently over 4500 car parks with the Park Mark award throughout the UK which can be found on a designated website www.parkmark.co.uk
Photo (left to right): Photo (left to right): Phill Edwards, Designing out Crime Officer, Lewes Police; Elliot Field Security Guard; Liz Nicholas Parking Supervisor; Nigel Spender Parking Officer and Pauline Blythin Security Supervisor
