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Trust unveils new uniforms to enhance patient experience and safety
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust has introduced new clinical uniforms for more than 3,000 staff, adopting the new national uniform for the NHS. Developed with input from NHS staff, patients and carers, the new national uniforms feature a clear colour-coded system designed to help patients, visitors and colleagues quickly recognise different clinical roles. The updated designs also prioritise comfort, durability and infection prevention.
Registered nurses, healthcare support workers, pharmacists and allied health professionals each wear distinct colours and name badges with role titles, making it easier for patients and families to quickly identify the right person for their needs.
The initiative follows feedback from patients, carers, and NHS staff, who highlighted that it could sometimes be difficult to distinguish between different roles on busy wards. Staff and patient representatives were closely involved in co-designing the new approach.
The introduction of the new uniforms is part of a wider effort to improve patient experience, safety, and communication. The uniform also supports the trust’s Net Zero commitment, made using Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton and 100% recycled polyester, reducing the use of raw materials and helping lower the carbon impact. Old uniforms will also be easier to recycle, helping to further cut waste.
Hannah Wilson, Deputy Chief Nursing officer and Chief AHP said:
“Our new clinical uniforms have been designed with NHS staff input to ensure they meet the practical needs of the workplace. They focus on comfort, quality, and freedom of movement, while also making it easier for patients to identify staff roles.
Clear identification supports patient confidence, safety, and teamwork across our hospitals.”
Under the new system:
- Pharmacy Technicians will wear sherwood green with a navy contrast trim
- Registered Nurses will wear hospital blue with navy contrast trim
- Healthcare Assistants/ Support Workers will wear lilac with navy contrast trim
Guides to the new uniform colours will be displayed at ward entrances, reception areas, and via this webpage .