Royal Berkshire NHS staff have hit back after the hospital released a statement listing a ‘discriminatory’ points’ system based on an individual’s circumstances.

Following the supposed removal of 1000 parking spaces within the hospital, the hospital trust is currently pursuing options for alternative parking locations for staff and volunteers.

Through a point system, permits are being issued regarding an individual’s home and work circumstances and number of spaces available in each location.

The Chronicle understands that particular criteria include journey distance, health conditions and having one or more child under 12 are considered when allocating passes.

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Staff have found a range of issues in regards to this new system.

An NHS staff member, who does not wish to be named and has worked for the NHS for many years said: “Royal Berkshire are ripping off all staff. Getting rid of 1000 of parking spaces and making staff walk from the Oracle – still having to pay for this.

“After the years we have had this is how our staff are being treated.

“Also, an awful points system which depending on staffing situations such as having children you get more points…staff have complained about this being discriminatory due to some staff not being able to have children.”

The Chronicle understands that a park and ride system has been set up from locations such as the Queen’s Road Car Park. This is supposedly causing stress on employees that now have to leave home substantially earlier than before.

We contacted Royal Berkshire trust for a comment about this difficult and complex situation.

The trust said: “We are aware that parking has been a cause of ongoing stress and anxiety for patients, staff, visitors and volunteers at Royal Berkshire Hospital. The Trust has explored a number of options to help reduce pressures on-site.

We are currently exploring a solution which will see staff and volunteers provided parking at various locations including at the hospital, Queens Road and Oracle Car Parks, and Park and Rides.

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They added: “These changes would see staff who have a greater need to park on-site – such as needing to visit patients in the community, working unsociable hours, health requirements, or caring responsibilities  – be given priority for parking at or near the hospital.

"As part of these changes, we will significantly expanding the number of parking spaces available to staff across Reading with nearly 100 spaces made available on-site, and 500 additional spaces within walking distance of the hospital. We are continuing to listen to staff as we make these changes and will not be implementing them until Autumn 2022.”