HSJ Patient Safety Awards 2025: Nursing-Led Patient Safety Initiative of the Year

The Inclusive Skin Assessment Initiative addresses significant health inequalities by enhancing pressure ulcer prevention specifically for patients with darker skin tones. London North West University Healthcare Trust developed the programme after identifying that traditional assessment methods often fail to detect early warning signs in non-white skin. The trust’s approach included creating a visual skin tone assessment tool, delivering comprehensive training to staff across all departments, and embedding equity considerations into everyday clinical practice.

The results have been substantial, with a 50 per cent reduction in late-identified pressure ulcers among patients with darker skin. The initiative has gained national recognition for its innovative approach to tackling healthcare disparities. This work represents a significant step forward in addressing systemic inequalities in NHS care delivery, establishing new benchmarks for inclusive clinical practice that other trusts are now beginning to adopt.

Read a detailed case study about this project at HSJ Solutions.