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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Uniform Dress Code Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all staff at {{org_field_name}} present a professional, safe, and hygienic appearance at all times. Our uniform dress code reflects the high standards of care we provide, ensuring identifiability, professionalism, infection control, and safety. This policy aligns with Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations, SSSC Codes of Practice, and Health and Social Care Standards. It provides clear guidance on expectations regarding staff attire, including uniform requirements, personal hygiene, and professional presentation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, and agency workers representing {{org_field_name}} in any official capacity, including home care visits, office work, training sessions, and external meetings where they are acting on behalf of the organisation. It covers uniform standards, personal presentation, hygiene, safety, and adherence to infection control measures.

3. Related Policies

• Health and Safety Policy
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy
• Code of Conduct Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy

4. Principles of the Uniform Dress Code

• Professionalism – Ensuring that all staff present a clean, neat, and appropriate appearance.
• Safety – Wearing appropriate attire that does not pose risks to staff, service users, or colleagues.
• Hygiene & Infection Control – Complying with best practices to prevent the spread of infections.
• Comfort & Practicality – Ensuring uniforms allow ease of movement for work tasks.
• Dignity & Respect – Presenting an image that upholds the dignity of the profession and those we support.

5. Uniform and Personal Appearance Guidelines

5.1. General Uniform Requirements

Staff must wear the designated {{org_field_name}} uniform while on duty, which consists of:

• Company-branded tunics, polo shirts, or other approved tops.
• Dark-coloured trousers (e.g., black, navy) or appropriate work trousers – No jeans or leggings (except where part of the uniform).
• Closed-toe, non-slip shoes – Trainers or casual footwear are not permitted.
• Name badges and ID cards must be worn at all times for identification.
• PPE (e.g., gloves, aprons, masks) must be worn where required, as per the Infection Control Policy.

5.2. Personal Presentation

All staff must maintain a clean, professional, and presentable appearance while on duty. This includes:

• Uniforms should be clean, ironed, and free from stains or damage.
• Hair should be clean, tied back if long, and neatly styled.
• Nails should be short and clean – Artificial nails, gel nails, and nail polish are not permitted due to hygiene risks.
• Jewellery should be minimal – Only a wedding band and small stud earrings are allowed.
• Visible tattoos must be covered where possible, especially those that could be deemed offensive.
• Makeup should be subtle and appropriate.
• Perfumes and aftershaves should be used minimally to prevent allergic reactions in service users.

5.3. Footwear Requirements

Footwear must:

• Be closed-toe and non-slip for safety.
• Be clean and in good condition.
• Provide adequate arch support and comfort for long periods of standing and walking.

5.4. Identification and Name Badges

• Staff must wear identification badges and name tags at all times while on duty.
• Badges should be visible and not obstructed by clothing.
• If lost, staff must report missing ID badges immediately for replacement.

6. Hygiene and Infection Control Compliance

Staff uniforms play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infections. To comply with infection control best practices:

• Uniforms must be washed daily at 60°C or as per infection control guidelines.
• Staff must change into their uniform at work where possible to reduce cross-contamination.
• PPE must be worn as required and disposed of correctly.
• Hands must be washed and sanitised regularly, especially before and after service user contact.
• Uniforms must not be worn outside of work environments unless commuting directly.

7. Religious and Cultural Considerations

{{org_field_name}} respects religious and cultural requirements while ensuring compliance with safety and hygiene protocols:

• Staff can wear religious head coverings (e.g., hijabs, turbans) in neutral colours that comply with infection control.
• Long sleeves may be worn under uniforms, provided they are tight-fitting and can be rolled up when needed.
• Modifications to uniform requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis in consultation with management.

8. Non-Compliance with Uniform Policy

Failure to adhere to the uniform dress code policy may result in:

• Verbal or written warnings for repeated non-compliance.
• Being sent home to change if the attire is deemed inappropriate.
• Further disciplinary action for continued breaches.

9. Staff Responsibilities

All staff members are responsible for:

• Wearing the correct uniform at all times.
• Ensuring their appearance meets professional standards.
• Following hygiene and infection control guidelines.
• Reporting any issues with uniforms (e.g., damaged, lost, or ill-fitting uniforms).

10. Management Responsibilities

Managers are responsible for:

• Ensuring all staff are provided with the correct uniform.
• Addressing uniform-related concerns raised by staff.
• Enforcing uniform policy adherence.
• Supporting staff with reasonable uniform adjustments where required.

11. Complaints and Exemptions

If a staff member has concerns about uniform requirements, they should:

1. Speak to their line manager.
2. Request reasonable adjustments where necessary.
3. Follow the Complaints and Grievance Procedure if needed.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if there are legislative changes, feedback from staff, or operational requirements. Any amendments will be communicated to all employees.

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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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.