Uniform Query

[Charlyparly]

I work in a care home where staff wear nursing dresses, which are totally impractical to work in, are awkward and uncomfortable.

Most care home and hospital staff ditched the nursing dress years ago. We requested a new uniform consisting of a nursing tunic and trousers but the homes' owner refused point blank. He is not at the home on a daily basis, has never provided "hands on" care and (I don't imagine) ever worn a dress - so has no idea how restrictive they are. What's the legal situation here? If everyone makes a specific request for a uniform which allows for a bit more dignity and is more comfortable to work in, can he still refuse? He seems to have no reason other than he "thinks they look smarter" It's worth mentioning that all members of staff are female. Wonder what would happen if he employed a male?

[pingping]

have you thought about wearing the tunic and trousers without asking his permission just to see his reaction? If he is not there you could probably wear it for ages before he even notices!

you could try posting this question in Law as well, they might know the legal answer to this, but unless it is in your contract that you must wear a dress - then you could probably buy your own outfit.