National Healthcare Uniform – Frequently Asked Questions
Following feedback on the open consultation we have identified some themes and frequently asked questions:
1. What are the benefits of a national NHS uniform?
The five key objectives and potential benefits of this project are:
- Improved patient safety
- Enhanced professional image
- Inclusion across the diverse workforce
- Value for money
- Sustainability.
2. Have you considered diversity in the workforce?
Yes, but we do want more input on this and welcome discussions with representatives to help us fully understand the needs from uniform. Please get in touch with us via
National Healthcare Uniforms
3. Will the proposed national uniform be worn by the whole NHS workforce?
Most healthcare professionals working in the NHS wear a uniform – where this is the case, we want to offer a uniform that is well designed, high quality and inclusive for all. The scope of this project at this stage is for those working in clinical roles and is focused on healthcare assistants, nurses, midwives and allied health professionals together forming the majority of groups wearing uniforms. We appreciate and recognise the importance of uniforms for other clinical and non-clinical roles and hope to look into this in the future.
4. Will the proposed uniform also be for healthcare professionals working in the community?
Yes, if these groups currently wear a uniform and are part of the NHS workforce. It has been suggested that having uniform consistency across all settings could help provide better understanding across the entire patient pathway.
5. Does this proposal mean everyone will be wearing a uniform in the future?
We are aware that there are many clinical settings where it is not deemed appropriate to wear a uniform because of the effect this may have on a patient. It is not the intention of this proposal to change that.
6. Will the uniform have pockets?
The smart scrub and dress will have two waist pockets and one breast pockets, the trousers and shorts will have two cargo style pockets.
7. Why have you launched the National Healthcare Uniform Consultation now?
When we launched the consultation in April 2022, we knew that taking some time out of incredibly busy days and nights for our NHS colleagues, might be difficult and still is. We questioned ourselves if this was the right time. However, as NHS Supply Chain we have the responsibility to ensure the NHS has a compliant contract in place for uniforms to enable the NHS to provide the fit-for-purpose garments our NHS workforce deserves. Our aim is to develop a uniform that is aligned with this objective.
See our Downloads ▼ section for further information around each of the areas above.
