The government has announced that from 24th July it will be compulsory to wear face coverings in shops and supermarkets
as well as in banks, building societies and post offices.
Wearing a face covering will not be made mandatory in other venues that have measures in place to protect staff and the public from COVID-19. These include:
- eat-in restaurants and pubs
- hairdressers and other treatment salons
- gyms and leisure centres
- cinemas, concert halls and theatres
For transport hubs in England, the requirements mean face coverings must be worn in indoor train stations and terminals, airports, maritime ports, and indoor bus and coach stations or terminals.
The public have been advised to wear coverings in enclosed public spaces, where they may encounter people they would not usually meet since May.It has been compulsory to wear a face covering on public transport in England since 15 June.
A face covering isn’t the same as a surgical face mask. It can be a scarf or bandana, or can be made at home. The most important thing is that it should cover the mouth and nose.The government has provided guidance on wearing and making a face covering.
People who do not follow the new rules could be fined up to £100, however children under 11 and people who are unable to wear face coverings because of their health condition ( and for other reasons ) do not have to wear a face covering.
If you are unsure about whether or not you are exempt from wearing a facemask, the government issued details when they announced that masks would be required on all public transport in June. The exemptions detailed at that time can be viewed here.
Update: See Press Release ( published 23 July )
There is no official exemption card and you do not have to provide any proof. It is not compulsory to show an exemption card but if you would like to carry a card you can download and print off a card you consider appropriate for you from various websites:
Exemption Cards
Sheffield CCG ( NHS ) have produced a series of exemption cards bearing an NHS logo.
Keep Safe have made a series of exemption cards for people with a learning disability or autism and produced Easy Read Information about wearing face coverings. You can also download a general exemption card from their website.
Hidden Disabilities exemption cards explain that you have a hidden disability and a reasonable excuse for not wearing a face covering.
Travel South Yorkshire’s Journey Assistance Cards help passengers with hidden disabilities or older passengers discreetly get help from the driver or conductor so they can travel on public transport with confidence. They also aim to help drivers and conductors be aware of any assistance or information requirements you may have. The series of cards now includes a card stating ‘I am exempt from wearing a face covering’.You can download the cards here or you can apply for a card to be sent to you using this form . They are also available at Transport Interchanges on request.
