Health Play Specialist NHS Uniform Standardisation

SoHPS has been meeting with NHS Supply Chain regarding the uniform standardisation that is taking place within the NHS. Initially, we were not allocated a colourway to represent our profession, and this was brought to the NHS Supply Chain directors attention by NAHPS and we expressed our disappointment. Following months of discussion, it was agreed that Health Play Specialists would be allocated the Ruby and Sherwood Green colourway and non-registered play assistants/practitioners, the lilac colourway.

Please be aware that the uniform standardisation is not mandatory – and some Trusts are not changing their current uniforms for staff.

We have received lots of enquiries from play teams, expressing concern about the new uniform, but as a society – we do not have any authority to change or mandate this. We are encouraging all teams, who are based within Trusts who are changing to the new uniforms, to adhere to the allocated colourways – as this will help us as a profession.

Our colourway is shared with art and drama therapists, but we are aware that many of these practitioners work privately, and therefore, may not wear NHS supplied uniform. It is thought that Health Play Specialists will be the primary wearers of the Ruby and Sherwood Green uniforms, which will give us an identity as a profession.

Please contact us at admin@sohps.org.uk if you have any queries about the uniform standardisation.

Penelope Hart-Spencer
Vice-Chair of the Society of Health Play Specialists