What Is UK Government Digital ID — and How Is It Different from Physical ID Cards?
An explanation of UK Government Digital ID, how it differs from physical ID cards, and why organisations still need professional staff identification. Includes ordering ID cards online.
In recent years, the UK Government has introduced digital identity services to help people prove who they are online. This has led to understandable confusion for organisations that already use — or are considering — physical ID cards for staff, contractors, and visitors.
This article explains what UK Government Digital ID is, what it is not, and how it differs from professionally printed ID cards used in workplaces, nurseries, healthcare settings, and businesses.
What Is UK Government Digital ID?
UK Government Digital ID refers to the government’s approach to online identity verification, primarily delivered through services such as GOV.UK One Login and the wider digital identity framework.
These systems allow individuals to:
- Prove their identity online
- Access government services securely
- Sign in using verified personal information
They are designed for digital interactions — such as applying for services, confirming identity online, or accessing government portals.
Important clarification:
UK Government Digital ID is for online verification only. It does not replace physical identification in workplaces or on-site environments.
Is SecureID Print Ltd Affiliated with UK Government Digital ID?
No.
SecureID Print Ltd is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the UK Government or any government digital identity scheme.
We do not issue government ID, digital ID, or official identity documents.
SecureID Print Ltd supplies professionally printed physical ID cards for organisations that need clear, visible identification in real-world environments.
Digital ID vs Physical ID Cards — What’s the Difference?
Digital ID (Government Services)
Digital ID is used:
- Online only
- On government websites
- For identity verification during digital processes
Examples include:
- Signing into GOV.UK services
- Verifying identity for online applications
- Accessing government portals
Digital ID cannot:
- Identify staff visually
- Control access to buildings
- Reassure parents, patients, or visitors
- Replace staff badges in workplaces
Physical ID Cards (Workplace & Safeguarding)
Physical ID cards are:
- Worn visibly by staff
- Used in real-world environments
- Essential for safeguarding and security
- Recognised instantly by people on site
They are commonly used in:
- Private nurseries and childcare settings
- Schools and colleges
- Private healthcare and clinics
- Care homes and care providers
- Offices and business premises
A physical ID card shows who someone is, who they work for, and whether they are authorised to be there.
Why Physical ID Cards Are Still Essential
Even with digital identity systems, organisations still need clear visual identification.
Physical ID cards help to:
- Support safeguarding policies
- Reassure parents, patients, and visitors
- Prevent unauthorised access
- Identify staff, contractors, and visitors instantly
- Present a professional image
This is especially important in environments involving children, vulnerable adults, or controlled access areas.
Can Digital ID Replace Staff ID Cards?
No — and there are no current plans for digital ID to replace physical staff identification in workplaces.
Digital ID and physical ID cards serve completely different purposes:
Digital ID
Physical ID Cards
- Online use only
- Government services
- Invisible to others
- Not wearable
- No branding
- Real-world use
- Workplaces & sites
- Visually identifiable
- Worn on lanyards
- Branded & professional
Most organisations use both:
- Digital ID for online systems (where applicable)
- Physical ID cards for everyday identification
ID Cards for Nurseries, Healthcare & Businesses
SecureID Print Ltd supplies professionally printed PVC ID cards for organisations that require clear, durable, and trusted identification.
Our ID cards are commonly used by:
- Private nurseries & childcare providers
- Schools and education settings
- Private healthcare & clinics
- Care homes & domiciliary care providers
- Businesses and offices across the UK
We also print on genuine Paxton Net2 cards for organisations using Paxton door access systems.
Why Organisations Choose SecureID Print Ltd
- UK-based specialist ID card printer
- Clear, honest advice
- Durable PVC cards
- Professional designs
- Optional access-control compatibility
- Trusted by organisations nationwide
We focus on physical identification that works in the real world.
Ready to Order Professional ID Cards?
If your organisation needs:
- Staff ID cards
- Nursery or childcare badges
- Healthcare or care worker ID cards
- Business or office identification
- Paxton Net2 compatible cards
You can order securely online.
👉 Order professional ID cards here:
https://www.secureidprint.co.uk/id-cards/custom-printed-id-cards
