Petition · past parliament
NHS guidance to include how to recognise infection on all skin tones.
Rejected
12 signatures
What the petition asks
Current guidance says to assess for infection look for symptoms and signs of pain or tenderness, localised swelling, redness and heat. We propose the wording changes around the colour due to this presenting differently in people with brown skin. For example redness/ browning or purpling.
For people with brown skin especially darker brown, the way an infection can present on their skin is different from those with white skin. Currently, the guidance does not recognise this difference.
For example Thrombosis UK state that thrombosis is a major cause of death in the UK, however, their guidance follows the UK gov guidance of recognising signs and symptoms. Healthcare professionals being appropriately trained to recognise these differences could save lives and be cost-saving to the NHS.
For example Thrombosis UK state that thrombosis is a major cause of death in the UK, however, their guidance follows the UK gov guidance of recognising signs and symptoms. Healthcare professionals being appropriately trained to recognise these differences could save lives and be cost-saving to the NHS.
Why it was rejected
It asked for something that is not the responsibility of the UK Government or Parliament.
We can only accept petitions about things the Government or Parliament are directly responsible for.
Decisions about the guidance the NHS produces is a matter for the NHS, not the UK Government or Parliament.
Decisions about the guidance the NHS produces is a matter for the NHS, not the UK Government or Parliament.
Timeline
| 7 Mar 2023 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 10 Mar 2023 | Rejected by the Petitions Committee |
Key facts
Signatures
12
Status
Rejected
Rejected
10 Mar 2023
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.