James Cook University Hospital receives national award for safer parking
The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough has retained the prestigious Park Mark, 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.
Steve Cranston, Cleveland Police said: “I am delighted that James Cook University Hospital has achieved the Park Mark award again as it demonstrates the hard work and commitment to providing a safe environment for both visitors to the hospital and staff.”
Laura Hallett, car parking manager at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital said: "We are really pleased to once again be awarded the Park Mark. It is really important that our staff, patients and visitors can use our car parks with confidence, knowing they are well looked after. It is a real team effort and I'd like to thank my colleagues for the hard work they give to maintain such a high standard in our car parks."
Ryan Davey, British Parking Association Area Manager, said: “Staff at James Cook University Hospital have worked hard to achieve Park Mark and it shows dedication to ensure facilities are kept to a high standard.”
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.
Research has shown that personal safety and location are cited as joint priorities when choosing where to park. Could you spot a Park Mark car park? Have a go by taking this quiz www.britishparking.co.uk/parking-quiz
Photo: Steve Cranston, Architectural Liaison Officer, Cleveland Police and Laura Hallett, car parking manager, South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust
