999 staff hit with ban on novelty socks

PARAMEDICS have been banned from wearing "novelty" socks because health bosses think it is unprofessional.

Staff at North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) have been told they can no longer wear socks decorated with cartoon characters, jokes and garish patterns.

The move is part of a new dress code policy that bans wrist watches, visible body piercing, excessive make-up and certain tattoos.

A uniform and protective clothing are provided by the service for frontline members of staff. The allocated uniform includes "plain, dark-coloured" socks and specifically indicates "no novelty socks to be worn when visible to the public". Staff could face disciplinary action if they fail to follow the code.

Jonathan Fox, spokesman for the Association of Professional Ambulance Personnel, said: "I am a strong supporter of staff having to adhere to a dress code, but this is taking it too far."

NWAS director of organisational development, Jon Lenney, said: "We do not feel that 'novelty' socks are appropriate for presenting a professional image."