Employment Law on Uniforms

[mary-jo]

I wonder if anybody can help with this question, I have worked at my current employment for a number of years working within the NHS . We have a smart office-wear dress code that is stated in our contracts that allows for freedom of expression and autonomy. However, recently an colleague has expressed interest to the management that a short sleeved tunic uniform would be a suitable alternative despite it being winter. The management suggested that we all be in agreement on this matter and that if we wanted the uniform that we would be provided with one tunic each and would have to purchase the second from our own pockets.

I am against this idea, and am in fact the only one in opposition to it for many reasons, one of those being that I do not feel you would have to wear trousers with the tunic to complete the look, I do not feel comfortable in trousers and in fact do not own any and would have to purchase these but mostly due to the fact that they are proposing to make the uniform compulsory and that we pay for the pleasure. Can they do this?

[woofgang]

Are you a member of a union or professional body where you could get advice and have you made your feelings known to your colleagues? If your Trust isn't bothered if you wear uniform or not, then I can see why they are making that offer. If you don't agree and the trust says everyone has to agree then all you have to do is say that you don't agree.
Apart from infection control requirements, there is no national standard for NHS uniform provision.

[joko]

i dont see why you couldnt wear a long matching skirt...

[joko]

i agree its cheeky to make you pay though

[boxtops]

what sort of service are you working in, that a uniform is necessary? I work in offices in the NHS and there is a dress code but no uniform. People in GP surgeries often wear uniforms but a basic number of garments is provided by the employer. Anyway, you would need at least 2 tops paid for IMO, one to wear and one to wash.

[buildersmate]

No, the 'management' cannot do this to you without your agreement. The clue was in your statement 'if we all agree' - since not all of you DO agree - you don't.
I have plenty of previous experience in trying to get employees to agree to wear a uniform and it is absolute nightmare - worse than getting the job of relaying out the seating plan in the office. Which is why the 'management' are saying only if you all agree.
As per usual, I don't agree with those whose contribution consists merely of 'go and join a Union to sort your problems out'.

[mary-jo]

Thanks for your help, I appreciate it greatly :-)