At NSL, part of Marston Holdings, we are proud to support the ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign, an initiative that highlights the crucial work of parking officers and seeks to change public perceptions about their role. Led by Brighton & Hove City Council in collaboration with NSL, this campaign aims to showcase the dedication and human side of those working on the frontlines of parking enforcement.
Brighton & Hove City Council, supported by NSL, and the North Essex Parking Partnership jointly submitted similar bids to the Driving Improvement Awards at PATROL, both focusing on tackling the abuse faced by frontline officers. Their shared commitment to improving safety and public understanding saw them both win funding to run campaigns aimed at reducing hostility towards parking enforcement teams. This campaign is fully supported by NSL and highlights the challenges our teams face and the need for proactive initiatives to drive respect and support in the communities they serve.
The Heart of Our Community
Parking officers, often seen solely as enforcers of regulations, play a pivotal role in maintaining the smooth operation of our city. Managed by NSL on behalf of the council, these individuals ensure traffic flows efficiently and that parking is safe and legal. Beyond their official duties, they assist residents and visitors with directions, support shoppers, and respond to incidents, including crime or health emergencies. Their presence is integral to the safety, accessibility, and overall wellbeing of Brighton & Hove.
The ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign sheds light on the personal lives of these officers, emphasising that they are more than their job titles and uniform. They are parents, carers, volunteers, and active community members with rich and diverse life experiences. By sharing their stories, the campaign seeks to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging the public to see them as individuals dedicated to serving the community.
Standing Against Abuse
Unfortunately, parking officers often face unjustifiable abuse due to negative perceptions. Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport, Parking, and Public Realm, stated, “Parking officers are more than their uniforms – they are integral members of our community who work tirelessly to keep Brighton & Hove running smoothly. This campaign shines a light on their dedication and humanity, while calling for a shift in public attitudes. Abuse of any kind is unacceptable. We stand firmly with our officers in promoting respect and appreciation for the essential work they do.”
Laura Padden, Director of PATROL, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the urgency of addressing enforcement staff abuse and the importance of supporting these essential workers.
At NSL, we fully support the ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign. Our frontline colleagues are the backbone of our operations, and their dedication ensures the seamless functioning of our services. We stand alongside Brighton & Hove City Council in advocating for the respect and appreciation our officers deserve. As leaders in our industry, we recognise the importance of a supportive environment where our staff feel valued and protected. Our frontline colleagues are at the core of what we do, and we are committed to ensuring they feel valued, protected, and respected in their roles. Keith Hanshaw, Group Managing Director, reinforces this commitment: “Our frontline teams are the backbone of our organisation, delivering essential services with dedication and professionalism every day. Their safety and wellbeing are our highest priority, and we are committed to ensuring they have the right support, training, and protection to carry out their roles safely. This campaign is a crucial step in raising awareness and reinforcing our shared responsibility to look out for one another. Together, we can make a real difference in keeping our people and roads safe.”
We invite you to learn more about the ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign and join us in recognising the essential work of parking officers. By fostering a culture of understanding and respect, we can make our communities safer and more welcoming for everyone.
For more information about the ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign, visit Transforming perceptions: Recognising the vital role of parking officers
