Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Masham of Ilton (Crossbench). It was answered by Lord Warner (Labour) on Thursday, 8 December 2005.

NHS: Staff Facilities

Question: What plans they have to ensure that there are sufficient changing, laundry and showering facilities for staff in National Health Service hospitals.

Answer: My Lords, it is for each individual NHS trust to determine its policies regarding the provision of changing, laundry and showering facilities. Changing and showering facilities are usually based on the number of staff likely to be using them, as set out in workforce regulations and building guidance. The local chief executive has the responsibility to ensure that staff have the necessary facilities, including clothing and equipment, to carry out their work effectively. We have set up an expert working group on the wearing and laundering of uniforms and expect its recommendations by spring 2006.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 676 c739
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Lead
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Hospitals Facilities NHS Staff Sanitation Uniforms Cleaning services
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk