An organisation that offers easy read information and UK guidance about coronavirus has issued a series of cards for people to use to show they are exempt from wearing face coverings.
Under new rules face covering is now compulsory on public transport except for people with certain health conditions, disabled people , children under the age of 11 and some carers.
So Keep Safe have made a series of exemption cards they have designed to show why you are not wearing a face covering, which is especially helpful if a person’s impairment is not visible.
The first side of the card is always the same and some people will be happy using it on its own. You can show it to quickly explain that you have a legal reasonable excuse not to wear a face covering. If you want a non-verbal way to explain more you can double side your card with one of the extra messages. These cards can be printed or shown on a mobile phone screen. There are different cards for people with different impairments or health conditions and for parents or guardians and who cannot wear a mask.
Keep Safe also makes easy read posters that free to print or share online. You can download their latest poster on face masks here.
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 .
