If you’re a parent, you already know that nothing is ever “quick.” A simple trip to the shops can involve car seats, snacks, meltdowns, forgotten coats, toilet emergencies, and negotiating with a tired child who suddenly refuses to walk.
Now imagine receiving a parking charge notice weeks later — even though you paid.
It happens more often than people think.
Recently, I helped prepare a formal data request following a parking charge issued after a parent had paid for parking. What stood out wasn’t just the error — it was how little understanding there seemed to be for the realities of parenting.
This is why parents need to know their rights.
Parking Systems Don’t See Children — But the Law Sees Fairness
Private parking companies rely heavily on ANPR cameras and automated systems. These systems record:
- Entry time
- Exit time
- Vehicle registration
- Payment matching
What they don’t record is:
- How long it takes to safely unload young children
- Time spent managing behaviour or distress
- Delays caused by disability or additional needs
- The extra supervision required in public car parks
The system sees timestamps. It does not see context.
But fairness and lawful data processing require context.
If You Paid — But Still Received a Charge
If you’ve paid for parking and still received a notice:
- Don’t panic.
- Gather your evidence (bank statement, receipt, screenshots).
- Appeal in writing.
- If necessary, submit a Subject Access Request (SAR).
A SAR is one of the most powerful tools available to you.
What Is a Subject Access Request (SAR)?
Under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018, you have the right to request:
- All ANPR images
- Entry and exit timestamps
- Payment machine logs
- Internal case notes
- DVLA data requests
- Any third-party sharing
- The lawful basis for processing your data
In simple terms: you can demand to see exactly what information they are relying on to pursue you.
This is particularly important if you were parking as a parent caring for children.
Why Parental Context Matters
When you are responsible for children:
- Exiting the vehicle safely takes longer.
- Returning to the car may take longer.
- Payment machines are harder to navigate while supervising children.
- Mistakes are more likely under pressure.
If a child has additional needs, anxiety, mobility issues, or sensory sensitivities, the timing pressure can be even more significant.
Private parking operators must process personal data lawfully and proportionately. That includes considering the real-world circumstances surrounding an alleged breach.
Automated enforcement without reasonable consideration can be challenged.
What to Include in Your SAR as a Parent
When submitting your request, make it clear:
- You were present as a parent responsible for children.
- Additional time was required for supervision and safety.
- You require all personal data relied upon in making the allegation.
- You want unredacted logs and audit trails.
This shifts the dynamic. It shows you understand your rights.
Parents Should Not Be Intimidated Into Paying Unfair Charges
Many parents pay simply to avoid stress. And that’s understandable — life is busy enough.
But if you genuinely paid, or if the circumstances were not reasonably considered, you are entitled to challenge it.
You are also entitled to transparency.
A Subject Access Request:
- Forces disclosure
- Prevents vague responses
- Creates a paper trail
- Strengthens your position
A Calm Approach Is a Strong Approach
The key is to remain:
- Polite
- Structured
- Evidence-based
- Legally grounded
There is no need for emotion or confrontation. Just clarity.
When companies realise you understand data protection law and your rights as a parent, the tone often changes.
Final Thoughts for Parents
Car parks are not neutral spaces when you have children. They are transitional, stressful environments that require care and attention.
Systems designed for speed and automation rarely account for that reality.
If you receive a parking charge that doesn’t feel right:
- Check your evidence.
- Submit a clear appeal.
- Use your right to a Subject Access Request if needed.
Most importantly, don’t assume you are powerless.
Parents carry enough mental load already. You should not have to carry an unfair parking charge on top of it.
If ChildrenNeedBoth.com readers would find it helpful, we can also publish:
- A downloadable SAR template for parents
- A step-by-step appeal guide
- Guidance for parents of children with additional needs
- Information on Equality Act considerations
Because when it comes to protecting families, knowledge matters.