The Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced that from 24th July 2020 it will be ‘mandatory’ to wear a face covering in shops in England. Face coverings are already mandatory on public transport.
However, the guidance makes clear that there are exemptions for children aged under 11 and people with some disabilities.
If shop staff and others use face coverings it also makes it impossible for people who are deaf to lip read and see facial expressions.
Lynne Turnbull, Chief Executive of Disability Positive said:
“I’m delighted that the guidance makes clear that if wearing a face covering is difficult because of disability, health condition or communication issues, then you do not have to wear one.
We want to make sure people feel confident to go out after a long time stuck at home, and that they are not subject to interrogation or abuse if they are unable to wear a face covering.”
Disability Positive is working locally to make sure that our local high streets recognise the needs of people living with disability and long-term conditions and make welcoming and inclusive shopping experiences.
The full guidance is available here
