{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Staff Dress Code and Uniform Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear and professional dress code for all staff at {{org_field_name}}. A consistent and appropriate dress code ensures the safety, hygiene, and professionalism of the care home environment while upholding Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations and best practices in social care. The policy sets out clear expectations for staff appearance, uniform standards, personal grooming, and the use of protective clothing to maintain the highest standards of care and infection control.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, including care workers, administrative staff, managers, and external professionals working within {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• Uniform requirements and appropriate attire.
• Personal grooming and hygiene expectations.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control measures.
• Guidelines on jewellery, footwear, and accessories.
• Cultural and religious dress considerations.
• Enforcement and non-compliance procedures.

3. Uniform Requirements and Appropriate Attire

To promote a professional and identifiable workforce, all staff must:

• Wear the designated uniform provided by {{org_field_name}} where applicable.
• Ensure uniforms are clean, well-maintained, and presentable at all times.
• Wear identification badges visibly while on duty.
• Choose smart, practical, and professional clothing if a uniform is not required for their role (e.g., office staff).
• Avoid casual clothing such as jeans, leggings (unless part of an appropriate uniform), hoodies, or offensive slogans/logos.

4. Personal Grooming and Hygiene Expectations

Maintaining high levels of personal hygiene is essential to ensure the dignity and safety of service users. Staff must:

• Maintain good personal hygiene, including daily washing and use of deodorant.
• Keep hair clean and neatly groomed; long hair should be tied back when providing care.
• Keep nails short and clean to prevent cross-contamination and minimise injury risks.
• Avoid wearing strong perfumes or aftershaves that may cause allergic reactions among service users.

5. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Infection Control Measures

To reduce the risk of infection and cross-contamination, staff must adhere to the following PPE guidelines:

• Wear gloves, aprons, and face masks as required during personal care, cleaning, and food handling.
• Dispose of used PPE appropriately following infection prevention and control protocols.
• Follow hand hygiene procedures, including washing hands before and after using PPE.
• Change into clean uniforms at the start of each shift to maintain hygiene.

6. Guidelines on Jewellery, Footwear, and Accessories

For safety and infection control reasons, the following rules apply:

• Jewellery: Only a plain wedding band and small stud earrings are permitted. Bracelets, rings with stones, and long necklaces must not be worn.
• Footwear: Must be closed-toe, non-slip, and comfortable for long periods of standing and moving. Trainers, sandals, or high heels are not permitted for care staff.
• Accessories: Items such as scarves, lanyards, or head coverings should be secured to prevent contamination risks.

7. Cultural and Religious Dress Considerations {{org_field_name}}

respects cultural and religious diversity. Staff who wear religious attire (e.g., hijabs, turbans, kippahs) must ensure:

• Clothing is safe, practical, and does not pose a hygiene risk.
• Sleeves can be rolled up for effective handwashing.
• Head coverings are clean and securely fitted to prevent interference with care duties.
• Any exemptions from uniform requirements due to religious or cultural reasons must be discussed with management to ensure compliance with infection control standards.

8. Enforcement and Non-Compliance Procedures

All staff are expected to comply with this policy. If a staff member does not adhere to the dress code:

• They may be asked to change into appropriate attire before continuing duties.
• Persistent failure to comply may lead to formal disciplinary action.
• Any concerns regarding uniform policies should be raised with the Registered Manager.

9. Compliance and Monitoring

The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring:

• All staff understand and comply with this policy.
• Regular checks and audits are conducted to maintain high standards.
• Staff receive guidance on uniform care, infection control, and dress code expectations.
• Any necessary uniform updates or modifications are communicated effectively.

10. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

• CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy.
• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy.
• CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy.
• CHW30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.
• CHW42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in CIW regulations, infection control guidelines, or operational needs. Updates will be communicated to all staff to ensure ongoing compliance.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.