Prison Officers to Receive New All-Black Uniforms in Major Modernisation

© Tom Blewitt & Zack Griffiths – HMP Prisons Justice Group

Prison officers across England and Wales are set to receive a new all-black uniform from next month, marking the most significant change to their appearance in more than four decades.

For almost 40 years, prison officers have been recognised by their traditional white shirts paired with black trousers. Under the new design, uniformed officers will instead wear black polo shirts with black trousers, a move that follows extensive staff consultation, practical trials, and a nationwide survey conducted by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS).

According to the Prison Officers’ Association (POA), the decision reflects changing operational demands within prisons. During the trials, officers reported that the black polo shirts were more comfortable, easier to maintain, retained their colour after repeated washing, and presented a more professional appearance.

A key factor behind the change is the Government’s ongoing rollout of protective body armour. White shirts were found to make body armour more visible, potentially highlighting areas of the body that were not protected and creating unnecessary safety risks. The darker uniform helps conceal the protective equipment while providing a more practical solution for frontline staff.

The Government has committed to issuing protective body armour to 10,000 prison staff by March 2027 as part of wider measures aimed at improving officer safety in increasingly challenging prison environments.

The new black uniform will be worn by all uniformed prison officers and officer support grades in adult prisons across England and Wales. Staff working in Young Offender Institutions and other youth custody settings will continue to wear blue polo shirts, while Physical Education Instructors will also remain in blue. Governors, who do not wear a standard uniform, will not be affected by the changes.

The redesign represents the first major update since the mid-to-late 1980s, when prison officers moved away from the former blue uniforms to the familiar white shirt and black trousers.

The all-black appearance has already drawn comparisons with New Zealand’s famous rugby team, the “All Blacks,” reflecting a modern and unified look for prison staff. More importantly, however, the new uniform signals an increased focus on officer safety, practicality, and professionalism as the Prison Service continues to adapt to the demands of the modern prison estate.