CARERS will have their parking permits paid for “forever” in a bid to thank frontline staff for efforts during the pandemic. 

Previously, staff had to pay for permits so they could park outside the homes of people they are caring for. 

But now, after “years of injustice” and to honour their hard work during the pandemic, council bosses will fork out £1,000 a year to cover permits. 

Kerry Smith, deputy leader of Basildon Council, pressed for changes after the hospice looked after his mum, councillor Imelda Clancy, before she died in January.

He said: “They allowed mum to stay at home with dignity and be comfortable.

“She wanted to be in her home when she died, and St Luke’s allowed her to do that.

“In the last few days of her life, they care for her a lot. They were even just there for a chat with mum when she needed one.

“They’ve been working like this throughout the pandemic, and deserve all the credit they can get.”

The move will cost the council £1,000 a year.

Mr Smith added: “Thurrock Council is doing the same, so why couldn’t we? I spoke to St Luke’s and they told me staff have to pay their permits in Basildon “I was shocked when I found out we weren’t doing it.

“It’s resulting a wrong from years gone by.  “It’s an injustice that they were having to pay for their permits, especially in the Covid pandemic.

“The hospice staff have been going out on a day-to-day basis all year round, despite everything that’s going on.”

St Luke’s Hospice care for residents across Basildon and Thurrock.

Imelda Clancy died in early January following a lengthy battle with bowel cancer.

Eileen Marshall, chief executive of St Luke’s Hospice, said: “We are very grateful to Basildon Council for their support which has helped us during a very challenging period.  “Their support will enable 76 permits for St Luke’s Hospice community services, which will allow parking close to the patients’ home, which is especially important as this is a 24/7 service and access to residential parking areas without incurring cost.”