What Is A Face Covering?
In the context of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, a face covering is something which safely covers the nose and mouth. You can buy reusable or single-use face coverings. You may also use a scarf, bandana, religious garment or hand-made cloth covering but these must securely fit round the side of the face.

Face coverings are instead largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus that causes coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

A face visor or shield may be worn in addition to a face covering but not instead of one. This is because face visors or shields do not adequately cover the nose and mouth.

Where To Wear A Face Covering
There are some places where you must wear a face mask, unless you are exempt or have a reasonable excuse;

• Public transport (aeroplanes, trains, trams and buses)
• Taxis and private hire vehicles

However, Government expects and recommends that people wear face coverings in crowded areas and use their your own judgment to decide if you wear a face mask or covering or not.

Face coverings are needed in NHS settings, including hospitals and primary or community care settings, such as GP surgeries. They are also advised to be worn in care homes.

Carrying an exemption card or badge is a personal choice and is not required by law.

1. Exception from face covering badges (for a mobile phone)
2. Exception from face covering badges (to print)
3. Exception from face covering card (to print)

Those who have an age, health or disability reason to not wear a face covering should not be routinely asked to provide any written evidence of this. Written evidence includes exemption cards.

Do's And Don'ts About waerinf Face Mask's and Face Covering's
	Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser before putting a face covering on
	Change the face covering if it becomes damp or if you’ve touched it
	Avoid wearing on your neck or forehead
	Avoid touching the part of the face covering in contact with your mouth and nose, as it could be contaminated with the virus
	Avoid taking it off and putting it back on a lot in quick succession (for example, when leaving and entering shops on a high street)

When Removing Face Mask's and Face Covering's
	Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser before putting a face covering on
	Only handle the straps, ties or clips
	If single-use, dispose of it carefully in a residual waste bin and do not recycle
	If reusable, wash it in line with manufacturer’s instructions at the highest temperature appropriate for the fabric
	Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser once removed
	Do not give it to someone else to use

Please see the links below for more information;

• Face masks Guidance .gov
• Face masks in hospitals
• Face masks on all public transport
• A full list of places of where to wear a face mask or face covering

All links come from trusted sources, however, if you are unsure about them or any other medical concerns, contact your doctor or pharmacist for further advice

Website updated on Friday 29th October 2021