Face Coverings Government Update

Face coverings

In England, face coverings are currently required by law to be worn in the following settings: shops, supermarkets, indoor transport hubs, indoor shopping centres, banks, building societies, post offices and on public transport. From 8 August, face coverings will be required by law to be worn in a greater number of public indoor settings including: museums, galleries, cinemas, places of worship, and public libraries. Please be mindful that there are valid exemptions for some individuals and groups to not wear a face covering in these settings. Please view the government guidance on Face coverings: when to wear one and how to make your own for further information.

People are also strongly encouraged to wear face coverings in any other enclosed public space where there are people they do not normally meet. Relevant guidance on face coverings is available on GOV.UK. Face coverings should also be worn when attending a hospital as a visitor or outpatient.

Current government guidance states that face coverings should not be used by children under the age of 3 or those who may find it difficult to manage them correctly. Parents should be aware that wearing a face covering in a playground setting could pose an additional safety risk and should use their judgement on whether their children wear a face covering.