A HOSPITAL Trust has hit back at claims that it uses its staff as a "cash cow" with the fees and penalty charges it collects.

The Mail reported yesterday that the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust raked in over £1million last year from its car parks.

That figure is made up of £779,570 from patients and visitors, along with another £325,802 from staff parking charges.

The Unite union slammed the Trust, saying staff were being exploited and were used as a ‘cash cow’.

But whilst confirming figures, the Trust defended its position saying the fees it charges was in line with those of a local authority and said that the money made from parking was being put back into the trust to improve facilities for visitors, staff and patients alike.

Foluke Ajayi, Chief Operating Officer for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, said: “As with the majority of NHS trusts in the country, we charge reasonable parking fees at our hospitals that are similar to the local council’s rates.

"Charging these fees allow us to ensure our car parks are kept solely for patients, visitors and staff to use.

"Blue badge holders can park for free at each of our hospitals, and there are also free short stay spaces available.

"We are currently investing in car parking at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary site, for staff, patients and visitors.

"This will increase the amount of car parking for our staff and visitors making it easier for people attending appointments or visiting loved ones.”