Update on a national ambulance uniform

In 2013, the Trust, with all other NHS ambulance services, took part in an exercise to find a common ambulance uniform that all ambulance staff nationally would wear. 

A national uniform specification was developed and sent out via the procurement process, and last week trusts nationally agreed a few minor tweaks with the supplier. These included the addition of a pen pocket on the left sleeve of the shirt and soft-shell; a badge on the rear of the shirt and soft shell displaying AMBULANCE; a change in the use of press-studs on the shirt to buttons (trousers press-studs will remain) and the inclusion of a knee pad pocket for the trousers. All individual trust crests will be replaced on the uniform nationally with the generic ambulance service crest and the words ‘NHS Ambulance Service’.

Kevin Smith, Director of Finance, said: “We’re pleased to see that the national uniform is starting to make real progress, and it’s pleasing to see that ambulance trusts from across the country have got involved in the specification and design. We will keep colleagues posted as soon as we hear more news.”

Each senior locality manager has photos of the new specification uniform, and there are also sizing sets at each of the three training centres (Norwich, Chelmsford and Melbourn). The changes made yesterday are not reflected in these photos but they are minor and provide the general idea.

Look out for more updates on Need to Know over the coming months!

Published 21st February, 2016