Moved here with the hope for more advice

[baaboo]

Earlier in the year I had a call back to work (I work in an industry where I am dealing with who could be considered as a vulnerable type of client)
It was dark, pouring down with rain. I parked my car in the space in the public car park that we have a permit for and ran in to get the permit. The clients were already at the door waiting. I let them in and they were my priority.

I got a parking fine for not displaying the permit.

I originally appealed with copies of my name on the permits stating the industry I am in and why I felt I couldn't just run out and display the permit.
I was also pregnant with a complicated pregnancy and didn't want to park my car elsewhere and walk. I provided a copy of a letter from the hospital stating stress was causing problems and I needed to take it easy.

The car park has about 30 spaces and there was about 25 free spaces.

I have ignored the letters as I am so upset by the lack of care and understanding. But now have received a letter from a debt collection company stating if I don't pay they will take me to a small claims court. I have 14 days to pay.

I am on maternity pay so can't afford it anyway. I have no idea what to do. Can anyone help?

Pay up and move on.

The company that runs the parking has no obligation to be kind.

Alternatively pay up and start a campaign against them.

Your clients were your priority, monetising the car parking space was theirs. Would you be okay with your employers not paying you because they had other priorities?

I didn't NOT pay for anything. I just didn't display my permit in an empty car park. The space is only for our company so no one else could have parked there anyway.

Unfortunately by ignoring the letters you have undermined your position. It is now too late to appeal. You could try a late appeal but it is unlikely to be accepted as you don't really have valid reasons for the delay. Realistically you will have to pay.

I understand that you didn't fail to pay. That doesn't matter. Parking companies can levy a fine if you overstay in a free car park even if the car park is completely empty apart from your car. They can certainly fine you for failing to display your permit.

I didn't ignore every letter. Just one. I appealed initially. I have contacted the collections company and explained what happened and they have asked me to send all the appeal details to them.

There are some very knowledgeable people on money saving expert forums. I would try there. Good luck.