Thank you

Thank you to everyone for your messages of support, sharing your stories and describing your efforts to the tackle parking crisis.

We have now launched a major campaign calling for urgent improvements to parking facilities at Royal Oldham Hospital, after growing frustration among patients, visitors and NHS staff struggling to find a space.

I have written to Oldham’s three MPs – Debbie Abrahams, Jim McMahon
and Lucy Powell, asking them to lobby the national government and support local efforts to deliver a long-term solution.

The campaign calls for:

• A multi-storey car park or other expanded facility to increase capacity.
• Dedicated parking directly opposite A&E; for patients attending emergency care.
• Affordable and fair parking for patients, visitors and NHS staff.
• Improved access for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.

I hear heartbreaking stories from patients who arrive late or miss appointments because they can’t find a space, or from NHS staff who finish 12-hour shifts only to face parking fines.

This is not just about convenience, it’s about safety and access to care.

Royal Oldham Hospital is a vital institution serving thousands of people every week.

Parking should never add to the stress of being unwell or caring for someone.

If Royal Oldham Hospital can give the world the first NHS IVF baby, I’m sure it can also give local people the parking facilities they deserve.

We need a proper, long-term solution – a multi-storey car park and fairer parking policies that work for everyone.

I will be asking for volunteers to join our campaign group very soon . Together we can make things better for every one in a constructive and productive way.