Nottingham parking officers have been spat at, had drinks thrown over them and been punched to the ground, according to Nottingham City Council.
The council says abuse directed at officers has increased over the past 12 months, with incidents ranging from daily verbal insults to physical attacks.
Examples reported this year include an officer being spat in the face, another having a drink thrown over them and officers being punched to the ground. Staff wear body-worn video cameras for protection.
The council is highlighting the incidents as part of the Beyond the Uniform campaign, which aims to improve public understanding of parking officers’ work and encourage people to treat them with respect.
Alongside enforcing parking restrictions, officers help residents and visitors with directions, assist local businesses and respond to crime or health emergencies.
Their work also helps keep roads and access routes clear for emergency services, public transport, pedestrians and other road users.
The council said parking officers receive a fixed salary and have no targets for issuing tickets. They do not receive bonuses, incentives or commission linked to the number of penalties issued.
It added that any surplus income from parking enforcement is ring-fenced under legislation for transport and highway-related services.
Beyond the Uniform was launched last year by Brighton & Hove City Council and North Essex Parking Partnership, working with PATROL.
Councillor Patience Ifediora, Executive Member for Regional Development, Growth and Transport at Nottingham City Council, said: “Our parking officers play a vital role in keeping Nottingham moving and supporting our communities. They deserve to be recognised for their hard work and treated with respect.
“Abuse is never acceptable, and this campaign celebrates the people behind the uniform and the important work they do every day.”
