Having lost a court battle regarding standards of dress for staff working with the Department of Works and Pensions that male staff are no longer obligated to wear ties and could even wear a kilt to work.
How strange then, that considering what Red Nose Day stands for managers at the Swindon JobCentre banned staff from wearing them, even on their clothing.
Traditionally, JobCentre staff have arranged functions such as sponsored leg shaving and other events to bring a little fun to clients and more importantly to raise money for the charity.
On Friday however, nothing was done as their former Benefits Agency managers now running JobCentres have imposed a Dickensian dress code for the day. Staff were told that red noses could not be displayed anywhere on their bodies but graciously allowed a red nose to sit on top of their PC.
Staff were allowed to dress down for the day but this too is imprisoned in a barrage of regulations, and staff have to pay for the privilege.
If JobCentre management (even after losing dress code rules in court) are unable to even participate in Red Nose Day, it is little wonder that there are waiting times of 1.5 hours to simply sign on or collect a form at the Swindon Jobcentre.
ADRIAN BELL
Wessex Court
Swindon
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article