NHS Identity Guidelines

Does the NHS colour palette apply to both external and internal signage?

Yes. The NHS colour palette applies to both external and internal signage.

Can we use FS Me font instead of Frutiger and Arial?

No, the NHS fonts are Frutiger and Arial and only these fonts can be used for your NHS communications. The consistent use of permitted fonts achieves the unified and uniform approach that our patients and public want from the NHS.

When do you expect communications and materials to follow the new NHS Identity guidelines?

One of the key principles of the new NHS Identity guidelines is ‘The use of the NHS Identity must always provide the best value for tax payers’ money.

How will the NHS Identity be protected?

We hope that NHS organisations and providers of NHS services will want to follow the new NHS Identity guidelines because they:

Can the NHS logo ever be purposely left off communications?

The NHS logo is instantly recognised and evokes positive, rational and emotional associations of trust, confidence, security and a sense of dependability. It should be used to ensure that patients, the public and stakeholders can quickly and easily identify communications from the NHS.

How do we brand a service commissioned and funded by others?

When an NHS organisation is delivering a service which is commissioned and funded by a non-NHS organisation (e.g. a local authority), the design of communications is the commissioner’s decision.

How do we create our NHS organisational logo?

NHS organisations and established formal networks will be provided with their NHS organisational logo in the new standard format by the NHS Identity team. After that, if your organisation ever needs to change its name, you will be responsible for making changes to your NHS organisational logo once your new name is approved.

How should accreditation marks be applied?

Accreditation marks should be positioned in a supporting position, at the bottom of your NHS communications.

Can suppliers to the NHS use the NHS Identity?

The letters 'NHS' and the NHS logo (lozenge) are protected by law. They are registered trade marks. The owner of the trade marks has ultimate and absolute discretion as to whether to permit or prohibit use.