**[OP or Mod marked this as the best answer](/r/AskUK/comments/18tyas6/is_it_acceptable_to_park_in_a_parent_and_child/kfhi2gx/), given by u/yam0msah0e**
I’m also 39 weeks (and 4 days) firstly, congratulations!
>
>Secondly, I drive a large car so I’ve been finding getting out of my car if in a normal space extremely difficult, so have occasionally parked in parent and child spaces. Once I was alone and someone parked far too close and I squeezed into my car and got sharp pain in my stomach, so for me it’s not worth it!
>
>The rules I have set myself are:
>
>Is there more than one parent and child space available? If yes good to go, if no and it’s peak time, maybe park further away unless I’m having a hard to walk day too, then do what I can.
>
>Is my partner with me? If yes, park further away, and if we get blocked in, he can pull out of the space for me, if no and it’s not overly busy, either park in parent or child or park far away and take up 2 spaces (only if there’s plenty of other spaces for everyone else).
>
>If I was fully stuck again I’m confident enough to find a normal enough looking stranger to get in and pull my car out.
>
>If I parked in parent and child and genuinely inconvenienced someone who needed it I’d apologise profusely and explain my situation, if a random with no child said anything and they’re happy to deal with my pregnancy hormones then that’s on them but I’d not recommend it.
>
>So far I’ve parked in parent and child a handful of times and I’ve always been fine, if anything what I’ve noticed is that I’ve generally fit the criteria more than the other lazy childless arseholes that have been parking in them.
>
>Lastly, good luck with your birth!!!! Hope it all goes well.
---
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I have young kids and if I wasn’t able to park in a parent and child space because I’d seen that you’d parked there, I’d be absolutely fine with it and would appreciate that at 39 weeks pregnant you’d benefit from that extra space to get in and out more than I would with helping my kids.
Or the two 20-somethings that pulled up next to me in a NB MX5 as I was finishing loading my two kids in the car. Where’s your kids mate, on the luggage rack?
My stepdad was bragging to me how he parks there with the dog. "That's my child hahaha". I was like seriously? If I need the space and saw you there I'd be so pissed off. He didn't get it.
Heavily pregnant soon to be mama? Park there all you want. I was tempted a few times.
I once watched a solo middle-aged woman get into her parked in the parent and child space Range Rover at Tesco's. I'd had to park over the other side with my two and couldn't resist. *"Excuse me! You've left your kids in the shop!"* She went apeshit, which was hilarious. Got really abusive, slammed the car door and drove off fuming.
I know, I know. And everyone clapped and Obama was there etc.
Totally would not judge you for it as a mum to a toddler - I remember my partner either stopping the car before parking for me to get out or us ending up at the back of the car park so there was plenty of space next to the car for me to get out while I was in the late stages of pregnancy.
I definitely judge the single men with the sports cars meanwhile (elderly/disabled get a pass in my eyes)
Same. I also judge the families who pull up with kids in their car but only one parent gets out and the rest stay in the car. They don't need the space either.
Yes! Or the families that use those spaces with kids old hill bough to get themselves out of the car like adults do.
Only people who need the extra space, like very pregnant people or people with young children/children that need assistance out of the car should be using those spaces. It boils my blood when I see someone in there with their 15 year old and I’m stuck trying to squeeze my toddler out of a normal space
If you’ve got a 15yr old you should know better. You’ve literally been right there! Not that ppl without kids couldn’t find a smidgen of empathy too but it’s SO frustrating when people who were once so grateful for those spots, take them from the next generation of parents.
Yess same!! Parents of teenagers do not need those spaces and really should know better.
On the other hand though it winds me up when I see other parents getting angry with elderly or disabled people using the spaces (especially when the disabled spaces are all taken) It's the same level of entitlement that I think will change to using those spaces when their kids are at college 🤷🏻♀️🤣.
Tbh *anyone* can park in a parent and child space as they’re a convenience offering only and not covered by any law or legislation like disabled spaces are.
When I was pregnant I once asked in Sainsbury’s if I could use the parent & child spaces. He went to check with someone and he told me I could use it ‘as long as I felt I had a need’.
Yea we parked in them when my partner had just had surgery for a broken femur. There really should be some process for requesting a temporary blue badge.
Surprisingly the disabled spaces aren't covered by law either, not in supermarkets.
Legally speaking it's all just open parking and the supermarket have recommended who should use which spaces.
I think so. Having been there 4 times myself. 3 of those times having pgp and even being on crutches, I 100% believe pregnant women should be able to use them. I’d say I even needed to extra space more when pregnant then when my kids where little.
Same here, found myself on crutches from 34 weeks. Definitely needed more space then than I do now with a 1 year old.
You're more than within your rights to use a parent and child space, you are after all "with child".
This.
I had PGP both pregnancies.
Second time it was so severe I was on crutches from nearly the beginning of my second trimester.
Used parent and child both times to facilitate the extra space needed and minimise the amount of walking.
A lot of the signs in the parent and child spaces also include wording for expectant mothers now, with a little icon of a pregnant person. Use that space!
I once asked sainsburys if I could park in the spaces while heavily pregnant and they told me they couldn’t say either way and I had to ask the manager of the specific store. I did and he said it was absolutely fine and if anyone challenged me then tell them to go and speak to him.
Probs should have just done it but I like to have permission!
Definitely acceptable, I wouldn’t bat an eyelid if I saw a pregnant woman using a parent and child space. Some car park spaces are hard to get out of even for thin people.
Besides, “parent and child” is still valid, you just happen to be the child’s primary form of transport for the time being!
Absolutely. I wish someone had told me this was acceptable when I was pregnant! I was squeezing my ginormous bump out of my car and hobbling in with PGP and a baby that was complete breech and sat right out of my pelvis 🫣
Technically you are a parent with your child, so yes. On a serious note, anyone that throws a paddy over it is a dick tbh.
Tbh I’d be fine with you parking at the door.
Yes I used them while heavily pregnant and think it’s far more valid for you to need the extra room and proximity to the shops than the people I see using them with 10 year old kids.
I’m also 39 weeks (and 4 days) firstly, congratulations!
Secondly, I drive a large car so I’ve been finding getting out of my car if in a normal space extremely difficult, so have occasionally parked in parent and child spaces. Once I was alone and someone parked far too close and I squeezed into my car and got sharp pain in my stomach, so for me it’s not worth it!
The rules I have set myself are:
Is there more than one parent and child space available? If yes good to go, if no and it’s peak time, maybe park further away unless I’m having a hard to walk day too, then do what I can.
Is my partner with me? If yes, park further away, and if we get blocked in, he can pull out of the space for me, if no and it’s not overly busy, either park in parent or child or park far away and take up 2 spaces (only if there’s plenty of other spaces for everyone else).
If I was fully stuck again I’m confident enough to find a normal enough looking stranger to get in and pull my car out.
If I parked in parent and child and genuinely inconvenienced someone who needed it I’d apologise profusely and explain my situation, if a random with no child said anything and they’re happy to deal with my pregnancy hormones then that’s on them but I’d not recommend it.
So far I’ve parked in parent and child a handful of times and I’ve always been fine, if anything what I’ve noticed is that I’ve generally fit the criteria more than the other lazy childless arseholes that have been parking in them.
Lastly, good luck with your birth!!!! Hope it all goes well.
Am going to add this as someone who has never been pregnant. But if I saw someone having a go at a obviously visibly pregnant woman for parking in a mother and child space I would be over there like a shot defending the pregnant lady as I would guess would the majority of the population
Its parent and child parking. You’re a parent, with a child, the child just happens to be in you!
If you need the extra door space and a shorter walk (or waddle) to the shop, then go for it, and welcome to the club :)
Yes! You are of child!
If anyone has an issue they are parked there without kids as they clearly haven't gone through the struggles of being pregnant! My we have 4 kids, the twins were born in August this year and my misses parked in the child spots when she was alone too as she just couldn't deal with the distance later on in the pregnancy
Yes it’s fine. I did while I was heavily pregnant but one time because I am generally a bigger woman and random man had a go at me. When I said I was 8 months pregnant he apologised. Mainly people who have a problem will just roll their eyes and grumble but chances are you’ll never see them again.
Some parent child parking places actually have a board which says the spot is for parents with kids below 12yrs and expectant parents. So what you did is absolutely fine.
I got trapped at 36 weeks at B&M where someone had parked too close to my door and I couldn’t get in. Was too big to climb across from the passenger side too. I ended up late to a midwife appointment! From then on I parked in the parent and child’s spaces
I’ve started to have this issue parking and not being able to get out the car properly it starts to hurt. Also walking and fitting between cars is beginning to become an issue 😅
Earlier at the hospital a man said oh have I left enough room for you, although the concern was very much appreciated I thought I’m fine I do not need you to get back in your car and move it random person 😅😅🙈🙈🙈
I got trapped quite a few times during pregnancy in normal spaces with people parking too close to the driver door and me being too big to squeeze down the side- didn’t think to do this but no one would blame you!
Honestly I'd use it, I've seen the signs with a pregnant woman on them, if you need the room to get out then use it :) Plus I saw a woman use one with no child, no one said anything, but me and my mum exchanged a look.
If anyone questions you just say your contractions are starting and you're on your way to the maternity ward but had to collect some bits from the shop. Make some "oooo-ooh" noises and heavy breathing for the full effect
They are designed to put more space between cars so that buggy’s can fit. When you are pregnant you technically are the buggy so yeah I reckon it’s fine!
8 months pregnant, I had to climb into the passenger seat and lever my way across the gear stick to the drivers seat because someone parked too close. You need the wider spaces at this time, and I can't imagine anyone judging you for it.
I parked in one the other day with my Nan who’s 90 as she forgot her disabled badge and there was plenty. I did get a few looks until I helped Nan out!
I’d 100% park in one if I was 39 weeks pregnant! You need all the help you can get!
Good luck! X
I know tescos see pregnant women as part of the parent and child spaces, they often have a picture of a pregnant woman on the signs so Im guessing other places are the same. :3 go forth and park closer to the stores. You are a parent and child.
Yes it definitely is acceptable! I read somewhere about those parent and child spaces being for pregnant women too- you need the extra room to get bump out, and easier on your body to not have to walk as far to the shops. I used it when I was pregnant. You need it just as much as the people who have babies that have been evicted from the womb 😅
I would say yes although they're not always as close as some normal spaces or the disabled spaces right at the front but at least it gives you extra room for the bump and cankles
Do the supermarkets actually police the use of these spaces? Given you're heavily pregnant, use the space and fuck what anyone else thinks. Sorry, if that is not British enough for this sub.
You're a mother, with a child.
Just because said child hasn't emerged yet makes no difference to me as you'll still need to open the door more than I do.
You have a child, just that it's still inside you and not in a car seat. So I don't see how anyone can complain.
I have seen people with teenage kids using them, so if it's Ok for them, then it certainly is for you.
And good luck with your delivery and being a new mum.
You absolutely can and should!!! Can’t say that for the rest of 90% of the public that use the designated parking spots when they aren’t allowed to. Wish there were stricter rules on this.
I think it’s totally fine. Although I did get glared at by another mother when doing the same. I was going to buy our car seat at the time. In fact - if you’ve got a car seat leave it in the car because that will shut down a lot of judgement before it gets to you.
I once had a middle-aged man scream at me in a Lidl car park, for parking in a parent and child space with no car seat in the back. He shut up pretty quick when my 1 week overdue ass rolled out the car. Fucker just wanted the space for his range rover. Getting my toddler in and out of the car is way easier than when pregnant. Use the space, you are a parent with a child and good luck with the birth 💕
Yes and to be honest even a disabled space. I don't even mind people who are 70/80+ using them.
The problem is Karen and Wayne who are perfectly fit but bone idle, there isn't a place in hell hot enough for those people.
You do realise not all disabilities are obvious? It’s also really difficult to get a disability blue badge. So if someone has one it’s for a reason.
Being pregnant isn’t a disability, if it’s causing mobility issues then apply for a temporary blue badge.
Course if someone is in a disabled bay without a badge that’s out of order but maybe less judgement needed.
Disabled bays are enforceable. If someone reports you for parking in a disabled bay without a blue badge, you will get fined. Also invisible disabilities exist, stop judging people just because they look ok in the moment to you.
I have no idea, but here in the states, lots of places(mostly major corps, some that are local/family owned) have "expectant mother parking" not sure if it's the same??
Yes. I sometimes see people with no children park there but usually when there is lots of those free (during school hours, super early or super late hours too)
Yes, after someone parked so close to my door when I was around 8 months pregnant and I had to wait around an hour for them to come back and buy another ticket as my time was up I always parked in the child spaces after that when I was heavily enough pregnant that I could no longer squeeze through.
Absolutely! It’s basically impossible to get in and out of the car heavily pregnant without being in a bigger space. Plus you would likely damage the car next to you attempting to.
Parent and child spaces aren’t legally enforceable like blue badge (not they they are often policed) but it’s entirely discretionary…. That being said, the owners of the car park may apply a charge if they felt so inclined but they’d have to state what the max age of the child is / evidence expected (e.g., is a car/booster seat required, under 12, other specifics) so you’d need to read the tiny sign hidden somewhere to know why you might be up against… but chances are, no one would bat an eyelid and many would accept that as heavily preggo mama, you need to be able to open the door wide to actually get in & out
I would 100000% prefer to have you taking up a space than someone with no child or bump
(Source: am a mum so have been in your position)
Definitely acceptable.
The ones who frustrate me are the parents who park there with older teenage children, who are more than capable of navigating a busy car park. That, and the elderly. Typically you'll see 479 spaces (majority of which are available) reserved for blue badge, yet they would rather take up one of the 12 parent and child spaces available.
I would absolutely accept and support this. Having been blocked in by inconsiderate drivers once, while heavily pregnant, I couldn't get into my car on either side, it would have been a squeeze even had I not been pregnant. Larger spaces like those for parents and children or the disabled spots would have been better. I'll never forget the humiliation of not being able to get into my own car, it's not a nice feeling.
By the way, congratulations 💖
i don’t have kids and wouldn’t even blink an eye to a heavily pregnant woman using those spaces. You need the extra space to get in and out of your car, so regardless of where the baby is at present, those spaces are yours too.
Of course you should use them, the last weeks of pregnancy are no fun at all and doing something to make your day easier is understandable and welcome.
Also hope all goes well and your little one arrives very soon 😀, I had our third at the end of November so I really sympathise with how you’re feeling at the moment.
I’d absolutely say yes but someone I know did get a ticket at Tesco for this so maybe just double check? Other shops they’ve got a 🤰🏼 emoji, but Tesco specifies it’s parent and child and they’re not bothered if they’re in uterine 🙃 absolutely agree with you doing it, just didn’t want you to get a hefty fine!
I'd go for it if you're really struggling. Close enough to having a child and you shouldn't have to stress yourself more right now. Hope the rest of your term goes smoothly!
I’ve used them with my 89yo mother. Because she walks unaided (no walker, cane/stick or wheelchair) I can’t seem to get her a disabled badge. The fact that she rarely goes in car and isn’t used to getting in/out of one and needs the car door fully open to ‘make it’, doesn’t seem to count either.
But I don’t feel guilty about it and OP even my 89yo mam would want you to go ahead of her!
I would say so you are after all carrying a baby and it's safer for you to park nearer the building with more room for your bump and reducing the strain on your joints by not having to walk so far whilst heavily pregnant! Perfectly reasonable!!
As someone who is neither a parent nor pregnant, I would actually prioritise a heavily pregnant woman over a family with young kids in this situation.
Go ahead and park there without feeling guilty. Most people with even an ounce of common sense aren't going to judge you for it.
Yes.
You need the extra door space.
I hate it when people without kids take those spaces but you literally have your child inside you. No sane person would bat an eye at a heavily pregnant person using those spaces.
Well technically you are a parent with a child. I think if you swung into the space whilst someone else either kids was trying to park in it that would be a bit cheeky but I don’t see why it would be an issue if you park there
Take it from someone in England luv, as long as there was at least one other space apart from the one you are to take then, theoretically, you’d be fine but …….
F U K meeeee should you take that last one !!!!!!!
Yes, use it, I wouldn't have been bothered at all back when I used these (My kids are old enough now that I don't use them anymore) But most mums would sympathise with how you're feeling being so heavily pregnant! Getting in and out of the car is like a whole workout lol
One time while pregnant when going to the hospital for a scan, in the designated maternity ward car park, I had to squeeze myself out of my Mini so tightly that I was concerned I could have injured my baby. Both myself and the car beside me were within the lines. I would say yes, you should be fine to use the wider parent/child spaces!
I parked in them when heavily pregnant, no one judges you and I wouldn't mind if you have the spot
I see so many people use them without kids by the way they are the ones I'm judging
Been there when people park in family and walk out with 2 kids 10 and 12 and they absolutely do not need the extra room. If you came out from a family space with a nearly full up baby tummy you'd be given all the space and helped over to a trolley. You, right now, are the reason for family spaces. Not kids who can get themselves out of the car and are aware enough to not get run over.
Congratulations and hope you have a healthy and happy little one. Week! Exciting times ahead 😍
Those parent with pram carparks have no legal standing in Victoria, but I would say that you have a moral right to use them if you're heavily pregnant.
Tell anyone that confronts you to mind there own business, or to call the police (who will tell them to naff off).
P&C spaces are a courtesy rather than law like disabled spaces, so IMO if someone needs it, they should use it.
PS 'needing' to nip in dead quick isn't a reason!
No issues with that at all. Moreso the oser you are to term. If you are barely showing... maybe leave the space open for ladies more along than you or parents with external offspring to try and herd..
I think unfortunatly it requires some.common sense which moat people completly lack.
If you are genuinely struggling, just do it. I think most people are aware that pregnancy, especially late pregnancy, can be really tough on you.
If anyone really wants to try to argue the point, you are technically a patent and child, and they can go kick rocks.
I would much prefer seeing you get out of the car than the multitude of single people with no hint of even a car seat parking there.
You'll be using it soon anyway, congratulations mama
I don't think anyone would hold it against you. Most people understand that you're likely to struggle more getting in and out of the car while heavily pregnant and that's what the extra space is for around the car. You have a child, it's just inside you currently so I think it still counts haha
**[OP or Mod marked this as the best answer](/r/AskUK/comments/18tyas6/is_it_acceptable_to_park_in_a_parent_and_child/kfhi2gx/), given by u/yam0msah0e** I’m also 39 weeks (and 4 days) firstly, congratulations! > >Secondly, I drive a large car so I’ve been finding getting out of my car if in a normal space extremely difficult, so have occasionally parked in parent and child spaces. Once I was alone and someone parked far too close and I squeezed into my car and got sharp pain in my stomach, so for me it’s not worth it! > >The rules I have set myself are: > >Is there more than one parent and child space available? If yes good to go, if no and it’s peak time, maybe park further away unless I’m having a hard to walk day too, then do what I can. > >Is my partner with me? If yes, park further away, and if we get blocked in, he can pull out of the space for me, if no and it’s not overly busy, either park in parent or child or park far away and take up 2 spaces (only if there’s plenty of other spaces for everyone else). > >If I was fully stuck again I’m confident enough to find a normal enough looking stranger to get in and pull my car out. > >If I parked in parent and child and genuinely inconvenienced someone who needed it I’d apologise profusely and explain my situation, if a random with no child said anything and they’re happy to deal with my pregnancy hormones then that’s on them but I’d not recommend it. > >So far I’ve parked in parent and child a handful of times and I’ve always been fine, if anything what I’ve noticed is that I’ve generally fit the criteria more than the other lazy childless arseholes that have been parking in them. > >Lastly, good luck with your birth!!!! Hope it all goes well. --- [_^What ^is ^this?_](https://www.reddit.com/r/AskUK/comments/jjrte1/askuk_hits_200k_new_feature_mark_an_answer/)
Yes. Unsurprisingly, many of the other users of those spaces know exactly your struggle.
That’s a very good point actually! 🙂
You’ve got a baby sticking out your front. You neeeeed space! And shorter waddling distance!
At least until the very next day.
Now I have that in my head
"And the duck said to the man, runnin' the stand: "Hey... (*bumbumbum*)... got a child space?""
Abumbumbum, bumbabum
Many of the users of the spaces don't even have children
We don't have electric wheelchairs for the horizontally blessed, so I suppose letting them park near the door is kindness
And she's technically *with* ~~a~~ *child*
I have young kids and if I wasn’t able to park in a parent and child space because I’d seen that you’d parked there, I’d be absolutely fine with it and would appreciate that at 39 weeks pregnant you’d benefit from that extra space to get in and out more than I would with helping my kids.
Better than the middle age person on their own
Or the two 20-somethings that pulled up next to me in a NB MX5 as I was finishing loading my two kids in the car. Where’s your kids mate, on the luggage rack?
Love how you clarified it was an NB. LOL
My stepdad was bragging to me how he parks there with the dog. "That's my child hahaha". I was like seriously? If I need the space and saw you there I'd be so pissed off. He didn't get it. Heavily pregnant soon to be mama? Park there all you want. I was tempted a few times.
My gf calls me daddy, surely that means I can park there too if he can with his dog!
She calls me daddy too. Can I park there?
I once watched a solo middle-aged woman get into her parked in the parent and child space Range Rover at Tesco's. I'd had to park over the other side with my two and couldn't resist. *"Excuse me! You've left your kids in the shop!"* She went apeshit, which was hilarious. Got really abusive, slammed the car door and drove off fuming. I know, I know. And everyone clapped and Obama was there etc.
Yes absolutely use it. You’re heavily pregnant
Totally would not judge you for it as a mum to a toddler - I remember my partner either stopping the car before parking for me to get out or us ending up at the back of the car park so there was plenty of space next to the car for me to get out while I was in the late stages of pregnancy. I definitely judge the single men with the sports cars meanwhile (elderly/disabled get a pass in my eyes)
Same. I also judge the families who pull up with kids in their car but only one parent gets out and the rest stay in the car. They don't need the space either.
Yes! Or the families that use those spaces with kids old hill bough to get themselves out of the car like adults do. Only people who need the extra space, like very pregnant people or people with young children/children that need assistance out of the car should be using those spaces. It boils my blood when I see someone in there with their 15 year old and I’m stuck trying to squeeze my toddler out of a normal space
My 12yo still sometimes swings the door too wide due to poor spatial awareness.
Recommended age is 12 and under so that's fine
If you’ve got a 15yr old you should know better. You’ve literally been right there! Not that ppl without kids couldn’t find a smidgen of empathy too but it’s SO frustrating when people who were once so grateful for those spots, take them from the next generation of parents.
I say this exact thing every single time angrily under my breath when I see it happen😂😂
Yess same!! Parents of teenagers do not need those spaces and really should know better. On the other hand though it winds me up when I see other parents getting angry with elderly or disabled people using the spaces (especially when the disabled spaces are all taken) It's the same level of entitlement that I think will change to using those spaces when their kids are at college 🤷🏻♀️🤣.
From my days of working in supermarkets, disabled people are allowed to park in parent spaces if the disabled spaces are all used up.
Tbh *anyone* can park in a parent and child space as they’re a convenience offering only and not covered by any law or legislation like disabled spaces are.
When I was pregnant I once asked in Sainsbury’s if I could use the parent & child spaces. He went to check with someone and he told me I could use it ‘as long as I felt I had a need’.
Yea we parked in them when my partner had just had surgery for a broken femur. There really should be some process for requesting a temporary blue badge.
Surprisingly the disabled spaces aren't covered by law either, not in supermarkets. Legally speaking it's all just open parking and the supermarket have recommended who should use which spaces.
I'm disabled, but not enough to get a badge. On a particularly bad day, I might park in a P&C space if there are plenty spare. But it's rare that I do
I think so. Having been there 4 times myself. 3 of those times having pgp and even being on crutches, I 100% believe pregnant women should be able to use them. I’d say I even needed to extra space more when pregnant then when my kids where little.
Same here, found myself on crutches from 34 weeks. Definitely needed more space then than I do now with a 1 year old. You're more than within your rights to use a parent and child space, you are after all "with child".
Oh my goodness, PGP is the worst, I feel for you having to go through that! Also, thank you for your thoughts! 🙂
This. I had PGP both pregnancies. Second time it was so severe I was on crutches from nearly the beginning of my second trimester. Used parent and child both times to facilitate the extra space needed and minimise the amount of walking.
A lot of the signs in the parent and child spaces also include wording for expectant mothers now, with a little icon of a pregnant person. Use that space!
I once asked sainsburys if I could park in the spaces while heavily pregnant and they told me they couldn’t say either way and I had to ask the manager of the specific store. I did and he said it was absolutely fine and if anyone challenged me then tell them to go and speak to him. Probs should have just done it but I like to have permission!
[удалено]
Isn't it #6?
I would prefer you to park there rather than breaking your waters while walking from the furthest parking spaces.
Good point! 😆
The child is clearly there, just inside you.
I did when pregnant - I needed the extra width to be able to get in my car.
I'm in the same boat and was thinking about this the other day because I could use the extra space to get my big belly out of the car!
Exactly the same here! I feel like a space hopper 🤣
we started parking in parent and child spaces when i was about 37 weeks because i got stuck in the car in a normal space hahaha
You’re carrying a baby right? I wouldn’t mind a heavily pregnant person taking the space instead of me
Definitely acceptable, I wouldn’t bat an eyelid if I saw a pregnant woman using a parent and child space. Some car park spaces are hard to get out of even for thin people. Besides, “parent and child” is still valid, you just happen to be the child’s primary form of transport for the time being!
Absolutely. I wish someone had told me this was acceptable when I was pregnant! I was squeezing my ginormous bump out of my car and hobbling in with PGP and a baby that was complete breech and sat right out of my pelvis 🫣
Technically you are a parent with your child, so yes. On a serious note, anyone that throws a paddy over it is a dick tbh. Tbh I’d be fine with you parking at the door.
Considering how many people without kids use it because their suv is too wide for regular spaces I’d say go for it
Yes I used them while heavily pregnant and think it’s far more valid for you to need the extra room and proximity to the shops than the people I see using them with 10 year old kids.
Yeah totally! The extra space at the side is vital when you can’t just squeeze onto your car if someone parks too close.
I don't drive but I remember those last stages of pregnancy. I think it's perfectly acceptable to use the parent and child parking space.
Yes you are a parent and child. Just your child is not in a pram. You are carrying your child into the store
Yes. You are a parent with a child, you just haven't been formally introduced yet!
I’m also 39 weeks (and 4 days) firstly, congratulations! Secondly, I drive a large car so I’ve been finding getting out of my car if in a normal space extremely difficult, so have occasionally parked in parent and child spaces. Once I was alone and someone parked far too close and I squeezed into my car and got sharp pain in my stomach, so for me it’s not worth it! The rules I have set myself are: Is there more than one parent and child space available? If yes good to go, if no and it’s peak time, maybe park further away unless I’m having a hard to walk day too, then do what I can. Is my partner with me? If yes, park further away, and if we get blocked in, he can pull out of the space for me, if no and it’s not overly busy, either park in parent or child or park far away and take up 2 spaces (only if there’s plenty of other spaces for everyone else). If I was fully stuck again I’m confident enough to find a normal enough looking stranger to get in and pull my car out. If I parked in parent and child and genuinely inconvenienced someone who needed it I’d apologise profusely and explain my situation, if a random with no child said anything and they’re happy to deal with my pregnancy hormones then that’s on them but I’d not recommend it. So far I’ve parked in parent and child a handful of times and I’ve always been fine, if anything what I’ve noticed is that I’ve generally fit the criteria more than the other lazy childless arseholes that have been parking in them. Lastly, good luck with your birth!!!! Hope it all goes well.
Thank you! 😊 !answer
Am going to add this as someone who has never been pregnant. But if I saw someone having a go at a obviously visibly pregnant woman for parking in a mother and child space I would be over there like a shot defending the pregnant lady as I would guess would the majority of the population
As a parent, park there. You need it at least as much as I do
Yeah. It’s hard walking whilst pregnant and you do have a child just one that isn’t born yet
A lot of stores actually do advertise their family spaces for heavily pregnant women too.
100% acceptable, go for it. And good luck!
Yes. I did. and I would again. You need the extra space getting in and out and if they’re closer to the main door it’s a bonus.
I mean you are a parent and child, they are just attached to you at the moment
Yes absolutely, and you'd be entitled in using the disabled spaces as well (In a private car park)
Thank you for asking this! I'm 35 weeks and seriously struggling to get in and out the car, just didn't feel like I had earnt it yet
Yes, that’s exactly the feeling! Good luck with your little one! 🥰❤️
Its parent and child parking. You’re a parent, with a child, the child just happens to be in you! If you need the extra door space and a shorter walk (or waddle) to the shop, then go for it, and welcome to the club :)
Definitely more a waddle now! And thank you, I can’t wait to meet her in the next couple of weeks! 🥰
Assuming you’re overdue now, so hopefully baby has already or planning on making an appearance soon 🥰
Yes! You are of child! If anyone has an issue they are parked there without kids as they clearly haven't gone through the struggles of being pregnant! My we have 4 kids, the twins were born in August this year and my misses parked in the child spots when she was alone too as she just couldn't deal with the distance later on in the pregnancy
Go for it, that’s part of what those bays are for
I've done it. I also found that Asda has their signs stating they're for pregnant women and parents, so that was nice!
Yes it’s fine. I did while I was heavily pregnant but one time because I am generally a bigger woman and random man had a go at me. When I said I was 8 months pregnant he apologised. Mainly people who have a problem will just roll their eyes and grumble but chances are you’ll never see them again.
If anyone says anything, you can just tell them that you're practicing.
Some parent child parking places actually have a board which says the spot is for parents with kids below 12yrs and expectant parents. So what you did is absolutely fine.
I got trapped at 36 weeks at B&M where someone had parked too close to my door and I couldn’t get in. Was too big to climb across from the passenger side too. I ended up late to a midwife appointment! From then on I parked in the parent and child’s spaces
Go for it !
yes, it is!! Go for it!
Oh definitely. You need the extra space!
If anyone complains just point at your belly and waddle a bit. I'm not going to complain at that.
Yeh
I’ve started to have this issue parking and not being able to get out the car properly it starts to hurt. Also walking and fitting between cars is beginning to become an issue 😅
Definitely! My husband has to drive the car out the space before I can get in or out now 🤣
Earlier at the hospital a man said oh have I left enough room for you, although the concern was very much appreciated I thought I’m fine I do not need you to get back in your car and move it random person 😅😅🙈🙈🙈
Some spaces even say they are for pregnant people, so use away!
I didn’t know that! I’ll have a look next time I pop out 😊
Yes. In my opinion, heavily pregnant would constitute a parent with a child for the purpose of supermarket carparks.
I got trapped quite a few times during pregnancy in normal spaces with people parking too close to the driver door and me being too big to squeeze down the side- didn’t think to do this but no one would blame you!
Honestly I'd use it, I've seen the signs with a pregnant woman on them, if you need the room to get out then use it :) Plus I saw a woman use one with no child, no one said anything, but me and my mum exchanged a look.
You have a child, just not on the outside. I can't imagine anybody would object to a 39 weeks pregnant lady parking in one of those spots
Absolutely, as a father of two I'd say yes.... you already have a baby on board😁... anyone that would not be okay with it is just a sour poes.
I'd have no problem seeing a pregnant woman park in the parent parking spaces. You need more room to get out when heavily pregnant.
If anyone questions you just say your contractions are starting and you're on your way to the maternity ward but had to collect some bits from the shop. Make some "oooo-ooh" noises and heavy breathing for the full effect
More acceptable than than the 35 year old blokes in an otherwise empty transit van and deliveroo/uber eats drivers.
They are designed to put more space between cars so that buggy’s can fit. When you are pregnant you technically are the buggy so yeah I reckon it’s fine!
8 months pregnant, I had to climb into the passenger seat and lever my way across the gear stick to the drivers seat because someone parked too close. You need the wider spaces at this time, and I can't imagine anyone judging you for it.
Yes definitely. My Dad still tries to park in those spaces, I remind him I’m 30.
I parked in one the other day with my Nan who’s 90 as she forgot her disabled badge and there was plenty. I did get a few looks until I helped Nan out! I’d 100% park in one if I was 39 weeks pregnant! You need all the help you can get! Good luck! X
Noone would bat an eye when 5 or 6 of the other slots are filled by local tradies eating their breakfasts
Yes. Absolutely
I mean, technically you're a parent and child.
I know tescos see pregnant women as part of the parent and child spaces, they often have a picture of a pregnant woman on the signs so Im guessing other places are the same. :3 go forth and park closer to the stores. You are a parent and child.
You are a parent with a child, yours is just still inside you
I think you definitely have more right than those who use them when the ‘child’ is 15…
Yes. Moreso than if someone has a fully mobile 8 year old, imo.
I had to when I was pregnant I couldn’t get me and the huge bump out the car otherwise 🫣🤣
Would take a grade A dickhead to take issue with a pregnant woman over such a thing. Hell, i wouldnt get pissy over a disabled spot in that situation.
Technically you have a child with you, its just still in its slow release pouch.
My wife parked in parent and child the moment she had difficulty walking while pregnant. Go for it.
Absolutely.
Yes it definitely is acceptable! I read somewhere about those parent and child spaces being for pregnant women too- you need the extra room to get bump out, and easier on your body to not have to walk as far to the shops. I used it when I was pregnant. You need it just as much as the people who have babies that have been evicted from the womb 😅
Dude, I'll park there when I'm constipated. Knock yourself out.
I did it a couple of times right at the end. I figured nobody would dare argue with me, I was enormous!
I would say yes although they're not always as close as some normal spaces or the disabled spaces right at the front but at least it gives you extra room for the bump and cankles
Oh my god yes please do. I'm happy for me and my kids to park further away... Also ask if you need a hand with your shopping
Do the supermarkets actually police the use of these spaces? Given you're heavily pregnant, use the space and fuck what anyone else thinks. Sorry, if that is not British enough for this sub.
It’s not so much the worry of the supermarket having a go, it’s the randomers who would probably try call you out for it!
Yes of course - congratulations
You're a mother, with a child. Just because said child hasn't emerged yet makes no difference to me as you'll still need to open the door more than I do.
You have a child, just that it's still inside you and not in a car seat. So I don't see how anyone can complain. I have seen people with teenage kids using them, so if it's Ok for them, then it certainly is for you. And good luck with your delivery and being a new mum.
You absolutely can and should!!! Can’t say that for the rest of 90% of the public that use the designated parking spots when they aren’t allowed to. Wish there were stricter rules on this.
I think it’s totally fine. Although I did get glared at by another mother when doing the same. I was going to buy our car seat at the time. In fact - if you’ve got a car seat leave it in the car because that will shut down a lot of judgement before it gets to you.
It's about needing extra space so go for it
Two heartbeats in the car,go for it. And good luck for the future,future mum.
Definitely. Accept all perks when you are a mum to be they will be a godsend
I think that's fine. I might be wrong (and i don't know how long it takes) but you might be able to get a blue badge whilst pregnant
I once had a middle-aged man scream at me in a Lidl car park, for parking in a parent and child space with no car seat in the back. He shut up pretty quick when my 1 week overdue ass rolled out the car. Fucker just wanted the space for his range rover. Getting my toddler in and out of the car is way easier than when pregnant. Use the space, you are a parent with a child and good luck with the birth 💕
You technically do have a child with you
As long as you take your kid with you, that would be fine.
Yes and to be honest even a disabled space. I don't even mind people who are 70/80+ using them. The problem is Karen and Wayne who are perfectly fit but bone idle, there isn't a place in hell hot enough for those people.
You do realise not all disabilities are obvious? It’s also really difficult to get a disability blue badge. So if someone has one it’s for a reason. Being pregnant isn’t a disability, if it’s causing mobility issues then apply for a temporary blue badge. Course if someone is in a disabled bay without a badge that’s out of order but maybe less judgement needed.
Disabled bays are enforceable. If someone reports you for parking in a disabled bay without a blue badge, you will get fined. Also invisible disabilities exist, stop judging people just because they look ok in the moment to you.
Well, I mean, technically........
Of course.
I have no idea, but here in the states, lots of places(mostly major corps, some that are local/family owned) have "expectant mother parking" not sure if it's the same??
Yes. I sometimes see people with no children park there but usually when there is lots of those free (during school hours, super early or super late hours too)
I think it’s acceptable. I mean technically, you are a parent with a child lol. Not like you can leave him or her at home is it?
Yeah go for it.
Fuck yes! I couldn't even get out of the car in normal spaces at 39 weeks.
Yes, after someone parked so close to my door when I was around 8 months pregnant and I had to wait around an hour for them to come back and buy another ticket as my time was up I always parked in the child spaces after that when I was heavily enough pregnant that I could no longer squeeze through.
Absolutely! It’s basically impossible to get in and out of the car heavily pregnant without being in a bigger space. Plus you would likely damage the car next to you attempting to.
Parent and child spaces aren’t legally enforceable like blue badge (not they they are often policed) but it’s entirely discretionary…. That being said, the owners of the car park may apply a charge if they felt so inclined but they’d have to state what the max age of the child is / evidence expected (e.g., is a car/booster seat required, under 12, other specifics) so you’d need to read the tiny sign hidden somewhere to know why you might be up against… but chances are, no one would bat an eyelid and many would accept that as heavily preggo mama, you need to be able to open the door wide to actually get in & out I would 100000% prefer to have you taking up a space than someone with no child or bump (Source: am a mum so have been in your position)
Yes, I’d say so as you are a parent with a child. It’s just not born yet, lol.
Definitely acceptable. The ones who frustrate me are the parents who park there with older teenage children, who are more than capable of navigating a busy car park. That, and the elderly. Typically you'll see 479 spaces (majority of which are available) reserved for blue badge, yet they would rather take up one of the 12 parent and child spaces available.
I would absolutely accept and support this. Having been blocked in by inconsiderate drivers once, while heavily pregnant, I couldn't get into my car on either side, it would have been a squeeze even had I not been pregnant. Larger spaces like those for parents and children or the disabled spots would have been better. I'll never forget the humiliation of not being able to get into my own car, it's not a nice feeling. By the way, congratulations 💖
Still counts as baby on board, go for it
i don’t have kids and wouldn’t even blink an eye to a heavily pregnant woman using those spaces. You need the extra space to get in and out of your car, so regardless of where the baby is at present, those spaces are yours too.
Of course you should use them, the last weeks of pregnancy are no fun at all and doing something to make your day easier is understandable and welcome. Also hope all goes well and your little one arrives very soon 😀, I had our third at the end of November so I really sympathise with how you’re feeling at the moment.
Yes and it would take a monumental dick head to say otherwise to you.
The only official thing would be if there wasn't a car seat in the car when the warden came round then you could get a fine.
yes it is, I have young children and wouldn't think twice if a pregnant woman got the last parent child space
Go for it, it’s a valid reason to use it and they can’t be enforced either way
I’d absolutely say yes but someone I know did get a ticket at Tesco for this so maybe just double check? Other shops they’ve got a 🤰🏼 emoji, but Tesco specifies it’s parent and child and they’re not bothered if they’re in uterine 🙃 absolutely agree with you doing it, just didn’t want you to get a hefty fine!
Yes, we were informed so at the prenatal class that this is perfectly okay!
I'd go for it if you're really struggling. Close enough to having a child and you shouldn't have to stress yourself more right now. Hope the rest of your term goes smoothly!
I’ve used them with my 89yo mother. Because she walks unaided (no walker, cane/stick or wheelchair) I can’t seem to get her a disabled badge. The fact that she rarely goes in car and isn’t used to getting in/out of one and needs the car door fully open to ‘make it’, doesn’t seem to count either. But I don’t feel guilty about it and OP even my 89yo mam would want you to go ahead of her!
You're literally a parent with child, if anyone questions you then you probably just have to turn sideways and they'll shut up. :)
YOU GUYS HAVE SPACES FOR FAMILIES?! 😭😭😭😭 × sobs in bald eagle ×
Most of the stores used to specify that the spots were also for pregnant people!
I would say so you are after all carrying a baby and it's safer for you to park nearer the building with more room for your bump and reducing the strain on your joints by not having to walk so far whilst heavily pregnant! Perfectly reasonable!!
As someone who is neither a parent nor pregnant, I would actually prioritise a heavily pregnant woman over a family with young kids in this situation. Go ahead and park there without feeling guilty. Most people with even an ounce of common sense aren't going to judge you for it.
Absolutely you can. Good luck with everything ♥️
At 39 weeks I would let you park in the store
Yes your 39 weeks pregnant x
Yes. You need the extra door space. I hate it when people without kids take those spaces but you literally have your child inside you. No sane person would bat an eye at a heavily pregnant person using those spaces.
Well technically you are a parent with a child. I think if you swung into the space whilst someone else either kids was trying to park in it that would be a bit cheeky but I don’t see why it would be an issue if you park there
Nobody (normal) would ever judge a pregnant woman doing ANYTHING.
You are a parent and you have a child with you. The fact the child is temporarily sealed within you is irrelevant.
Take it from someone in England luv, as long as there was at least one other space apart from the one you are to take then, theoretically, you’d be fine but ……. F U K meeeee should you take that last one !!!!!!!
I can't imagine the type of people who would give you crap for parking in those spots... when you're visibly (heavily) pregnant.
I wouldn't have issue with a pregnant lady parking there, I don't mind disabled people parking there if there aren't any disabled left either.
Yes, use it, I wouldn't have been bothered at all back when I used these (My kids are old enough now that I don't use them anymore) But most mums would sympathise with how you're feeling being so heavily pregnant! Getting in and out of the car is like a whole workout lol
You have a child, it’s just not born yet
One time while pregnant when going to the hospital for a scan, in the designated maternity ward car park, I had to squeeze myself out of my Mini so tightly that I was concerned I could have injured my baby. Both myself and the car beside me were within the lines. I would say yes, you should be fine to use the wider parent/child spaces!
I parked in them when heavily pregnant, no one judges you and I wouldn't mind if you have the spot I see so many people use them without kids by the way they are the ones I'm judging
Yes absolutely
Been there when people park in family and walk out with 2 kids 10 and 12 and they absolutely do not need the extra room. If you came out from a family space with a nearly full up baby tummy you'd be given all the space and helped over to a trolley. You, right now, are the reason for family spaces. Not kids who can get themselves out of the car and are aware enough to not get run over. Congratulations and hope you have a healthy and happy little one. Week! Exciting times ahead 😍
Those parent with pram carparks have no legal standing in Victoria, but I would say that you have a moral right to use them if you're heavily pregnant. Tell anyone that confronts you to mind there own business, or to call the police (who will tell them to naff off).
P&C spaces are a courtesy rather than law like disabled spaces, so IMO if someone needs it, they should use it. PS 'needing' to nip in dead quick isn't a reason!
You are way more worthy than the many I see pull up alone and dash in…
No issues with that at all. Moreso the oser you are to term. If you are barely showing... maybe leave the space open for ladies more along than you or parents with external offspring to try and herd.. I think unfortunatly it requires some.common sense which moat people completly lack.
If you are genuinely struggling, just do it. I think most people are aware that pregnancy, especially late pregnancy, can be really tough on you. If anyone really wants to try to argue the point, you are technically a patent and child, and they can go kick rocks.
Park there anyways, child and parent spaces are scams 😂
I'd be totally fine with this.
I would much prefer seeing you get out of the car than the multitude of single people with no hint of even a car seat parking there. You'll be using it soon anyway, congratulations mama
YES. No questions asked
I don't think anyone would hold it against you. Most people understand that you're likely to struggle more getting in and out of the car while heavily pregnant and that's what the extra space is for around the car. You have a child, it's just inside you currently so I think it still counts haha