CIRC 018: YOUR NEW UNIFORM IS ON IT’S WAY

Following a full staff survey, various trials and talking to staff HMPPS have decided to move with the times and change the uniform. The last change of uniform was around the mid to late 80s when the then blue uniform was changed to black and white.

The new contract starts in July 2026 when all uniformed staff will receive utility polo tops and black utility trousers. All staff working in the YCS estate will have blue polos meaning that the OSGs will also be in blue. PEI’s in all establishments will remain in blue, all other staff will have black.

White polo tops were trialed, which led to negative feedback and staff asking for a darker colour for practical and medical reasons. The roll out of personal body armor (PBA) in the high security estate following a rise in serious assaults, created concerns for those staff wearing white shirts as it is clearly visible where the PBA starts and finishes giving prisoners the opportunity to target the areas around the PBA.

During the trials, wearers reported that the black polo washed well, kept its colour, looked professional and was more practical.

When this uniform is rolled out, white shirts/blouses will not be available so I would suggest that if you have any uniform allowance left that you order a new one to keep should you need to wear a Barathea uniform (No.1).

The judiciary will be informed of the change in uniform should staff be required to attend court to give evidence.

 

Yours sincerely

STEVE GILLAN
General Secretary

 

 

 

ENCLOSURE

Attachments

• POA Circular 018-2026 - New Uniform.pdf

  0.42 Mb, pdf