Face Coverings in England: 24th July

As announced by the Government last week, on Fri 24th July, it will become mandatory for all customers shopping in our stores to wear a face covering.

Wearing a face covering became mandatory in Scottish stores on Fri 10th July for both customers and colleagues.  Since then, there has been very little feedback and customers have wholeheartedly supported the process.

As a business, youhave an obligation to not only ensure that your staff andcolleagues work in a safe environment but also to ensure that your customers feel safe whilst shopping in store. 

As a result, from Fri 24th July, it is highly recommended that all business premises make face coverings mandatory on the shop floor if social distancing of 2m is not possible.  Your face covering should be properly worn, covering both your mouth and nose.   

If you are protected behind a perspex screen or in any back areas with no customers, there is no legislation advising that you must wear one.  In this instance, it is entirely your choice if you choose to wear a face covering or not.

This decision is based on the most up to date information that we have.  We will continue to review this requirement to ensure it is still appropriate.

Specific groups of customers are exempt from this legislation. This also applies to colleagues.  Any people who fall into the following groups do not have to wear a face covering:

• Physical or mental illness or impairment or disability

• Relevant health conditions

• Children under 11

• If putting on, wearing, or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress

• If you are shopping with or providing assistance to, someone who relies on lip reading to communicate.

Although customers and service users should enter your store wearing a mask (unless they are exempt), if a customer specifically requests a mask whilst shopping, it is good practice to give them a disposable mask.