Everyone who is exempt from wearing a face mask in shops from tomorrow

From July 24th, face coverings will be compulsory in all shops and supermarkets in the UK. Those who fail to comply with the new rules will be hit with a fine of up to £100. 

The government explains that this move will ‘give people more confidence to shop safely and enhance protections for those who work in shops.’

Charity, Hidden Disabilities has created a face mask exemption card for anyone who has a reasonable excuse to not wear one.

The card costs 55p, however, it is not official proof you are exempt from wearing a mask. Instead, the card indicates that you have a hidden disability, illness or impairment.

The Hidden Disabilities website explains: “Businesses who are members of the scheme are aware of our card and provide support, help, assistance or simply a little more time to those wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

“However, please note that shops and public transport can still refuse you entry if you are not wearing a face covering.”

Government advise states that if you have ‘any physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability’ and would experience ‘severe distress’ from wearing a face mask you don’t have to.

Exemptions include: 

• young children under the age of 11
• not being able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
• if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress
• if you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip-reading to communicate
• to avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others
• to avoid injury, or to escape risk of harm, and you do not have a face-covering with you
• to eat or drink, but only if you need to
• to take medication
• if a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering

When asked you are permitted to remove your face-covering in the following situations:

• if asked by shop staff for purpose of age identification
• if speaking with someone who is reliant on lip-reading, facial expressions or clear sound

There are different and specific guidelines for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. 

Shops can refuse you entry if you are not wearing a face covering. If you refuse to comply with the face-covering law you can face up to a £100 fine. 

You do not need to wear a face mask in work under the current guidance.

Find information here on how to make a face-covering cheaply and safely with materials you can find around your home. 

 ‘any physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability’,