A hospital in Ilford has taken a significant step toward inclusive care by introducing disposable hijabs for Muslim patients undergoing surgery.
Practice Plus Group Hospital, located in Ilford, has implemented the new head coverings to ensure female Muslim patients can maintain their modesty and cultural identity while adhering to strict operating theatre hygiene protocols.
The initiative was spearheaded by Steven Palmer, an operating department practitioner, who noticed a recurring issue among Muslim patients.
“One day, I had three female Muslim patients, all wearing hijabs, and all visibly anxious before their procedures,” Palmer explained. “While we provide theatre hats, I realised we didn’t have anything specifically designed to accommodate patients who wear hijabs.”
The one-use hijabs allow patients to replace their personal head coverings with a sterile alternative, aligning with infection control policies while respecting religious practices. The disposable hijabs are worn into theatre and then safely discarded post-procedure.
“It struck me that inclusivity isn’t just about policies—it’s about small, practical changes that make people feel comfortable and respected,” Palmer added.
A Welcomed Innovation
Since their introduction, the disposable hijabs have been warmly received by patients. One woman reportedly told staff it allowed her to feel “safe, seen, and respected” at a vulnerable time.
Hospital director Mark Gilmour praised the initiative, saying:
“Inclusivity in healthcare is about making small, thoughtful changes that help individuals feel comfortable, valued, and respected in environments that can otherwise feel intimidating or isolating.”
The move is part of a wider effort by the hospital to improve patient experience across all backgrounds, and comes as conversations around culturally sensitive healthcare gain national attention.
A Step Towards Inclusive Care
This latest development aligns with ongoing NHS goals to reduce health inequalities and create more compassionate, personalised care environments. In areas like Ilford, where diverse communities rely on local health services, such changes can make a meaningful impact.
The hospital’s new hijabs are now available to any patient who needs one, and staff have been trained to offer them as part of the standard pre-surgery process.
