Beyond the Uniform campaign celebrating and supporting our Parking Officers
We're proudly unveiling the Beyond the Uniform campaign.
Working in partnership with PATROL (Parking and Traffic Regulations Outside London) and the North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP), it aims to reshape public perceptions of parking officers by highlighting their essential contribution to the city’s operations and the humanity behind their role.
The hidden heroes of Brighton & Hove’s streets
Parking officers, managed by NSL on behalf of the council, are vital to keeping traffic moving and ensuring safe, legal parking across the city. They ensure parking spaces remain accessible, support emergency services by keeping routes clear, and help those with disabilities or mobility issues to get around.
Yet their dedication often goes unrecognised, with abuse directed at parking officers rising alarmingly in the past 12 months.
According to NSL, 53% of abuse directed at parking officers comes from uninvolved third parties. Recorded incidents of abuse have surged by more than 75% in 2024 compared to the previous year, ranging from daily verbal insults to violent confrontations.
This worrying trend underscores the urgent need to address misconceptions surrounding the work of parking officers and foster greater respect for their vital contributions to our city.
Shining a light on the people behind the role
Beyond the Uniform highlights the individuality and humanity of parking officers, emphasising that these are real people, with rich and diverse life experiences – they are parents, carers and volunteers, who contribute actively and positively to our community.
Beyond enforcing parking regulations, parking officers play a broader role in public safety, supporting the city’s economy and social wellbeing. This ranges from helping residents and visitors with directions, assisting shoppers, or responding to incidents of crime or health emergencies.
Parking officers make an unseen but significant contribution to Brighton & Hove’s daily life.
Changing perceptions, driving respect
Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport, Parking and Public Realm, emphasised the importance of the campaign. He said: “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, said: ‘The Beyond the Uniform campaign highlights that staff working in parking and traffic enforcement are everyday people, with families and hobbies like everyone else.
“Their work is challenging and is often met with an entrenched negative public perception that makes them, as individuals, the target of unjustifiable abuse on our streets.
“The shocking incidents reported in recent years underscore just how urgent the issue of enforcement staff abuse is, and I’m proud that PATROL is backing this important initiative. By showcasing the stories of enforcement staff, we hope to inspire a shift in attitudes and ensure these essential workers – who help to keep roads safe and traffic moving – are supported, not targeted.”
A national model for change
Brighton & Hove’s Beyond the Uniform campaign sets a precedent for local authorities nationwide, showcasing the often overlooked yet vital contributions of parking officers.
Funded by PATROL after Brighton & Hove City Council and the North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) jointly won a national competition to highlight the work of parking officers, this initiative underscores the officers’ commitment to ensuring accessible, safe and thriving urban spaces.
By emphasising parking officer safety and wellbeing, Beyond the Uniform drives a much-needed conversation around empathy and respect, urging communities to view these professionals not just as enforcers, but as indispensable partners in civic life.
