HEALTH workers have been issued with new uniforms to help patients identify them when they call at the door.

District nursing staff at Derwentside Primary Care Trust have been issued with new work clothes after patients expressed concern that it was very difficult to identify NHS nursing staff when they visited them at home.

Helen Tucker, the trust's director of patient services, clinical governance and nursing, said: "The nurses are absolutely delighted with their new uniforms.

"Staff wanted to see a professional and practical uniform with a more corporate image that would make them feel part of a team.

"The whole effect has certainly made staff feel more valued and it has proved very popular with patients who now find it easier to identify NHS nurses."

The nurses chose the uniform's design and colour themselves, and all the new outfits carry the trust's logo.

The uniform comprises a navy striped tunic and plain trousers for nursing sisters, while staff nurses wear a pale blue version.

Auxiliary nurses will wear a lilac striped tunic with plain navy trousers.

All staff will also be provided with navy fleeces and navy waterproof jackets.