footwear -- what's the exact requirement?

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Specializes in Surgery.

Hi,

I'll be working in an NHS hospital soon (coming from another country), and I was wondering what kind of shoes are allowed to be worn for work. I'll be working as a ward nurse.

I've learned the basics -- closed black shoes, low/no heels. However, I was told we can't wear trainers. I'm not that comfortable walking around in black leather shoes though, so I'm trying to find a really comfortable pair, but I'm a bit cautious as to whether if it would be approved or not. I tried looking at online nursing shops to see, but then I saw trainers there and got myself more confused, so I thought I should ask here instead. :)

Thanks for all the help!

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

I know the hospitals I worked at (although it was a few years ago) trainers was not allowed and found many styles comfortable.

What are you not comfortable with in regards to the walking around in black leather shoes?

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Specializes in Advanced Practice, surgery.

I am afraid smart black work shoes are what it sounds like your trust require. I wouldn't be happy for any of my staff to wear trainers to work

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Specializes in ICU.

Skechers are smart and comfortable, they come in black leather. I bought gel insoles for my shoes which help a lot with knee pain. We are allowed to wear trainers at my trust but they have to be plain black. Personally I don't think they look smart. We used to all wear black Crocs (the professional ones, eg no holes on top) and they were fab, but then they were banned under the new uniform policy.

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Specializes in ICU, Haemodialysis, acute medicine and s.

our shoes have to be either white, black or blue, closed toe, low heel etc. we are allowed to wear trainers also. I don't think we are supposed to but a lot still wear crocs (me included) but eventually they will ban them properly.

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