NHS Uniform Colour Codes: What They Mean & Choosing the Right Workwear

The NHS started using colour coding to distinguish healthcare staff back in the late 1960s. In 2023, a new set of coloured uniforms was unveiled to identify and unify clinical workers, with different shades signalling an employee’s role. Nurses' uniform colours, for example, are predominantly blue, while surgeons are expected to wear green scrubs.

Below, we’ll break down the list of shades and their corresponding roles—but first, let’s look at the reasoning behind NHS uniform colours. There’s a purpose behind this standardised system, and it’s more important than you might think.

Why NHS Uniform Colours Matter in Healthcare & Professionalism

The colourways for different roles weren’t chosen at random; nor is their sole purpose to identify staff. Patient confidence, infection control, hazard visibility, and professional appearance all factor into the health service’s decision to colour-code uniforms. Additionally, specific fabrics and designs are uniquely tailored for the demands of healthcare environments.

NHS Uniform Colour Codes & Their Meanings: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Team

The NHS colour coding system is widely used, although it can vary between different regions and trusts. Below is a general guide to uniform colours and their meanings:

Light Colours & Their Roles

• Sky Blue: Staff Nurses – Ideal for everyday comfortable, breathable uniforms.
• Green: Surgeons, Operating Theatre Staff – Focus on scrubs with antibacterial properties.
• White: Consultants, Doctors, Scientific Staff – Professional, easy-care uniforms.
• Yellow: Healthcare Assistants – High-visibility options for busy ward environments.
• Turquoise: Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists – Stretchable, flexible workwear for ease of movement.
• Pink: Children's Nurses, Paediatric Staff – Engaging, child-friendly designs with personalised options.
• Orange: Specialist Roles, Outpatient Care – Bold colours for easy staff recognition.
• Light Green: Support Staff – Practical & durable for varied hospital duties.
• Light Grey: Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians – Smart, clean-cut designs for clinical settings.
• Aqua: Midwifery Staff – Comfortable, moisture-wicking uniforms for active shifts.
• Lilac: Dental Department Staff – Lightweight materials for dentistry professionals.

Dark Colours & Their Roles

• Navy Blue: Senior Nurses, Authority Figures – Custom embroidery and name badges for leadership roles.
• Burgundy: Support Staff (Porters, Domestic Assistants) – Durable, easy-to-clean workwear.
• Royal Blue: Specialist Nurses (Paediatrics, Radiology) – Custom pocket placements for equipment.
• Grey: Administrative & Clerical Staff – Smart uniforms for front-desk professionalism.
• Red: Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Emergency Nurse Practitioners – High-visibility options for critical care areas.
• Purple: Mental Health & Psychological Services Staff – Comfortable, non-intimidating attire.
• Brown: Phlebotomists, Specimen Collection Staff – Stain-resistant fabric for clinical settings.
• Black: Administrative Managers – Stylish, corporate-style personalised uniforms.
• Dark Green: Mental Health Trust Staff – Soft, calming colour schemes for patient-focused care.

Are NHS Uniform Colours the Same Across the UK?

NHS uniform colour guidelines serve as general recommendations, but each NHS trust can set its own uniform policies, resulting in variation across regions.

Some trusts choose to add customisation—for example, embroidered identifiers—for cohesion and professionalism, while others select unique colour schemes based on local preferences and traditions. When providing uniforms across multiple NHS trusts, consider offering flexible colour options and standardising branding elements like logos and name badges.

NHS Uniform Updates: How Changing Policies Impact Workwear

While the current colour system isn't standardised across the entire UK, the NHS is steadily moving towards clearer guidelines to achieve nationwide consistency and avoid confusion across regions and trusts.

Healthcare providers must stay updated on these changes to ensure compliance. Bulk ordering with flexibility in colours and styles helps employers to swiftly adapt to new standards while considering the diverse needs of their staff.

Choosing Custom & Personalised NHS Workwear

Embroidered names, job titles, department identifiers, and NHS logos help patients and workers easily identify staff, ultimately fostering a sense of trust and efficiency in fast-paced healthcare settings.

Ordering customised workwear in bulk ensures consistency across teams while reducing costs in the long run. Uniforms should be selected for comfort and durability, prioritising flexible fabrics with moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial properties.

FAQs: NHS Uniform Colour Codes & Customisation

Can NHS staff choose their own uniform colour?

No, uniform colours are chosen by NHS trusts and must comply with professional guidelines.

Why do some hospitals have different uniform colours?

Hospitals under different NHS trusts may have unique colour-coding systems, resulting in variations.

Are uniform colours the same for private healthcare?

No, private healthcare providers set their own uniform policies, which may differ drastically from NHS guidelines.

How can I personalise NHS uniforms with embroidery or branding?

Our custom embroidery and printed services allow you to add branding to uniforms. Please ensure they comply with NHS policies and professional standards before ordering.

What’s the best material for durable, long-shift healthcare uniforms?

Polyester-cotton blends, moisture-wicking materials, and anti-bacterial fabrics offer the best durability, comfort, and hygiene in healthcare environments.