On multiple occasions, when I was heavily pregnant, I found myself in distressing situations where I had to ask strangers to help me get my car out of a normal parking space, not knowing if I was even allowed to park in parent child bays or there being none available.. The lack of available Parent & Child parking bays, coupled with unethical use by those who don't need them, left me no choice on some days but to manoeuvre my car in dangerously tight spaces. On one alarming day, I was forced to drive forward with my baby in my lap because I couldn’t get him back in his seat due to the tiny space between my car and another parked vehicle. This is not okay.

Parent & Child bays are essential for families with young children or pregnant women who require extra space for both safety and convenience. Currently, there is an insufficient number of these bays, and they are frequently occupied by individuals who do not have children with them or who are not pregnant, leading to unnecessary hardships for those who genuinely need them.

What’s more, without any official enforcement, these bays are often abused. It's imperative that we urge local councils and private parking operators to increase the availability of these crucial spaces and to enforce stricter rules to prevent misuse. It's time for the introduction of permits that are issued to those who qualify for these spaces, ensuring they are used by the individuals they are intended to serve.

Studies show that the availability of adequate parking significantly affects the safety and wellbeing of families. In the UK, for example, nearly 73% of parents report experiencing difficulty finding Parent & Child parking spaces. With the growing number of families with young children, the demand for these specific parking spaces is only going to increase.

By advocating for more Parent & Child bays and the implementation of a permit system, we can create a more accommodating and safe environment for parents and children alike. Help us make this change by signing this petition. Let’s ensure that families can park safely and easily, without unnecessary stress or risk.