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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Staff Dress Code and Uniform Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff at {{org_field_name}} adhere to a professional, safe, and hygienic dress code while providing domiciliary care services. This policy outlines dress code requirements, hygiene standards, and the use of uniforms in compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, health and safety guidelines, and infection prevention best practices.

Our objectives are to:

• Promote a professional and recognisable identity for our care team.
• Ensure staff maintain high standards of hygiene and infection control.
• Prioritise comfort, practicality, and safety in work attire.
• Reflect the values of dignity and respect in service user interactions.
• Comply with safeguarding measures, ensuring service users feel secure and confident in the professionalism of our staff.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including care workers, senior carers, supervisors, and managers.
• The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, responsible for ensuring compliance.
• Administrative staff and external contractors who interact with service users.
• Service users and families, who have a right to expect professionalism in staff appearance.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring professional service delivery.
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, requiring appropriate protective clothing for staff safety.
• The Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Guidelines, minimising infection risks through hygiene and uniform standards.
• The Equality Act 2010, ensuring a non-discriminatory approach to uniform requirements.
• Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) Standards on Staff Presentation, ensuring professionalism in care delivery.
• The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulations 2002, ensuring staff wear appropriate protective clothing where required.

4. General Dress Code Standards

4.1 Professional and Presentable Appearance

All staff must:

• Wear the official uniform (if provided) or suitable, professional attire.
• Ensure clothing is clean, ironed, and in good condition.
• Avoid clothing with offensive slogans, logos, or excessive patterns.
• Wear ID badges at all times while on duty.

4.2 Hygiene and Cleanliness

• Uniforms and clothing must be washed daily to reduce infection risks.
• Shoes must be cleaned regularly and free from dirt.
• Long hair must be tied back to maintain hygiene during care delivery.
• Staff must maintain high personal hygiene standards to promote a professional image.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Uniform policies are reinforced in staff training sessions.
• Regular hygiene audits ensure compliance.
• A staff handbook includes dress code reminders and practical hygiene tips.

5. Uniform Guidelines

5.1 Wearing the Uniform Correctly

• Uniforms must be worn in full while on duty.
• Staff must wear designated colours or logos identifying their role.
• Uniforms should not be worn outside of work unless travelling to/from duty.

5.2 Footwear Requirements

• Closed-toe, non-slip, and supportive footwear must be worn to prevent injuries.
• Shoes should be dark-coloured and professional (no sandals, flip-flops, or high heels).

5.3 Name Badges and Identification

• All staff must wear their ID badges visibly at all times.
• Badges should include the staff member’s name, role, and organisation logo.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Uniforms and ID badges are issued at induction.
• Replacement uniforms and badges are provided if lost or damaged.
• Spot checks are conducted to ensure staff compliance.

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidelines

• Gloves, aprons, and masks must be worn in line with infection control guidelines.
• PPE should be disposed of correctly after each use.
• PPE must not be reused unless specified by manufacturer guidelines.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Regular training on correct PPE usage is provided.
• A PPE stock system ensures continuous availability.

7. Restrictions on Jewellery and Accessories

• Minimal jewellery is allowed – only a plain wedding band and small stud earrings.
• No dangly earrings, necklaces, or bracelets that could pose a safety risk.
• Fingernails must be kept short and clean – no acrylic nails or nail polish.
• Makeup must be minimal and professional.
• No strong perfumes or aftershaves, as some service users may be sensitive to scents.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Staff guidelines include acceptable jewellery and accessory standards.
• Managers conduct routine visual checks during shifts.

8. Cultural and Religious Considerations

{{org_field_name}} respects cultural and religious beliefs and allows:

• Head coverings (such as hijabs, turbans, or kippahs), provided they are secure and do not interfere with safe care delivery.
• Modifications to uniform requirements for religious or cultural reasons, subject to health and safety considerations.

How we manage this efficiently:

• Adjustments to uniform policy are discussed on an individual basis.
• Staff must submit uniform modification requests in writing to management.

9. Cold Weather and Outdoor Work Considerations

• Staff may wear an approved fleece or jacket while working outdoors.
• Hats, gloves, and scarves may be worn during cold weather but should be plain and professional.

10. Managing Non-Compliance with Dress Code

If a staff member fails to follow the dress code:

1. A verbal reminder will be given for minor breaches.
2. A written warning will be issued for repeated non-compliance.
3. Further disciplinary action may be taken if the issue is not resolved.

How we manage this efficiently:

• A clear disciplinary process ensures consistency in enforcing the dress code.
• Supervisors conduct regular uniform and appearance checks.

11. Staff Responsibility and Training

11.1 Staff Responsibilities

• All staff must comply with uniform and hygiene guidelines.
• Staff should report any issues with uniforms (e.g., sizing, wear and tear) to management.
• Care workers must ensure their uniform is suitable for work settings.

11.2 Training on Dress Code Compliance

• Dress code expectations are explained during induction.
• Refresher training sessions cover hygiene, PPE, and uniform care.

How we manage this efficiently:

• A dress code checklist is included in staff onboarding materials.
• Regular staff meetings address any uniform concerns.

12. Related Policies

This policy aligns with:

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW22).
• Health and Safety Policy (DCW18).
• Safeguarding Adults Policy (DCW13).
• Dignity and Professionalism in Care Policy (DCW07).

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, business needs, or CIW updates. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring compliance.

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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}}
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