Dress code policies,  particularly the application of the Bare Below the Elbows (BBE) policies and inconsistent theatre guidance, continue to create anxiety and barriers for many Muslim women in healthcare. Research by BIMA and The Bridge Institute found that over half of Muslim female healthcare professionals felt their religious requirement to cover their arms was not respected by their Trust, and nearly three-quarters were dissatisfied with the BBE alternatives offered.

BIMA has refreshed its Dress Codes webpage to make it easier to access guidance, research and advocacy resources on dress codes all in one place. The updated section includes practical tools such as email templates to support engagement with your trust or employer, a step-by-step guide and a PowerPoint presentation to help raise awareness around dress codes at a local level.

This update reflects BIMA’s continued commitment to advocating for fair, inclusive and evidence-based policies that protect both patient safety and religious expression. By equipping healthcare professionals with clear information and practical tools, we aim to foster a system where no one has to choose between their faith and their profession.

Visit the Dress Codes page here.

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