Dress code: conduct policy
Published 4 October 2010
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dress-code-conduct-policy/dress-code
We were asked whether we have a dress code.
We do not have a specific dress code. Information relating to dress code is contained in the Ministry of Justice’ Conduct Policy which is available to all staff on the Intranet site. The relevant excerpt is shown below.
3.4 Dress
Under the Civil Service Code you will:
‘always act in a way that is professional and that deserves the confidence of all those you deal with’.
In some instances our customers will expect us to present a smart or professional appearance while at work or on official business. If there is a particular business need, you may need to follow a certain dress code.In these circumstances, managers should:
- make sure we do not discriminate for any reason
- consider what is appropriate dress to meet the business need and avoid being unnecessarily strict
- remember that if an employee’s religion means they must follow a particular dress code, this must be respected
- make sure that, if necessary, employees wear identification badges or security passes
- give staff uniforms if needed, for example, gowns for court ushers.
You will not wear badges or display slogans or anything which shows you are a member of a particular political party. You may wear small badges showing your membership of a civil service trade union.
Because we have a number of business needs, we do not have a standard dress code. As a result, this guidance is meant to provide a framework only. Ask your manager what dress code is in place in your workplace. Your managers will normally discuss your dress code with local trade-union representatives.