Sugden calls for card payment facilities at Causeway Hospital

East Derry MLA Claire Sugden has welcomed confirmation that the Northern Health and Social Care Trust is reviewing the introduction of card payment facilities at Causeway Hospital’s parking ticket machines.

“Attending hospital can already be a stressful experience, whether you are attending an appointment, receiving treatment or visiting someone you care about. People should not then have the added worry of trying to find cash or work out where they can make a card payment,” Ms Sugden said.

“While card payments can currently be made at the main reception, this may not be a practical alternative for older people, those with mobility difficulties, anyone managing young children or someone rushing to an appointment or to be with a relative.

“I appreciate that the pandemic and uncertainty around the future of hospital parking charges affected the Trust’s earlier plans. However, people increasingly rely on card and contactless payments, and the facilities at Causeway Hospital should reflect that.

“I welcome the Trust’s decision to review card payments directly at the ticket machines. It may seem like a small change, but it would remove unnecessary inconvenience for patients, visitors and staff, and I hope it can be introduced soon.”