No-one should have to endure anti-social behaviour when they’re coming into hospital.

And that’s why we have teamed up with Hull City Council and Humberside Police to secure a new Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to combat ASB outside Hull Royal Infirmary.

The order prohibits people from:

• Making verbal, non-verbal or written requests for money, donations, or goods
• Loitering, sitting, or laying on the floor – particularly around doorways and cash machines
• Consuming or being in possession of an open vessel containing alcohol

Anyone failing to comply with the conditions of the order could find themselves liable for a £100 fixed penalty notice or a Magistrate’s Court fine.

In addition to this, Council enforcement teams will also be issuing £150 fixed penalty notices to those found to be littering in the area – including those dropping cigarette butts.

Deputy Head of Facilities, David May for NHS Humber Health Partnership, said: “What this PSPO does is enables the Police and Council enforcement officers to take firm action against those who behave anti-socially outside HRI, causing alarm and distress to our patients, visitors and colleagues.

“It’s extremely important to us that anyone coming to our hospitals – whether that’s for treatment, to work, or to care for a loved one – should not be subject to harassment, intimidation, or obstructive behaviour.

“Having this order in place will help to ensure that anyone behaving this way can be dealt with appropriately, creating a more pleasant environment for everyone.”

Humberside Police Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Dave Lonsdale said: “We know how important it is for people to feel safe and at ease when they’re coming to hospital, whether as a patient, visitor, or member of staff.

“This Public Spaces Protection Order is a welcome measure, and we’re hopeful it will help reduce anti-social behaviour and improve the environment around Hull Royal Infirmary.

“Our officers will continue working closely with Hull City Council and NHS Humber Health Partnership, and we remain committed to supporting a safe and respectful space for everyone.”

Cllr Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “We want people to feel safe entering or leaving the hospital, whether it’s as a worker, a patient or a visitor. This new Public Space Protection Order will help protect everyone outside Hull Royal Infirmary from antisocial behaviour, including harassment and intimidation.

“Many of us are in a vulnerable position when we visit the hospital – whether as a patient or to support a loved one. It’s unacceptable for anyone to experience abusive behaviour at that time, and this joint work between the council, hospital and police shows it won’t be tolerated.

“The impact of the order, along with use of fixed penalty notices for anyone caught littering will help make the area around our hospital safer”.

You can find out more about the order by visiting hull.gov.uk and searching PSPO.