Face coverings compulsory from today

Face coverings mandatory in additional public spaces from 24 July

Under the new regulations laid on 23 July members of the public will need to wear face coverings – for example, a fabric covering, scarf or bandana – that covers the nose and mouth in additional enclosed public spaces from 24 July.

Face coverings will not be mandatory for:

• anyone under the age of 11

• those with disabilities or certain health conditions, such as respiratory or cognitive impairments that make it difficult for them to wear a face covering

It will be compulsory to wear a face covering when buying food and drink to take away from cafes and shops. If a member of the public is in a premises where they are able to sit down and consume food or drink that they have bought, then they can remove their face covering in order to eat and drink on-site.

As well as shops and supermarkets, face coverings must be worn in banks, building societies and post offices.

Wearing a face covering will not be made mandatory in other venues that have measures in place to protect staff and the public from coronavirus. These include:

• eat-in restaurants and pubs

• hairdressers and other treatment salons

• gyms and leisure centres

• cinemas, concert halls and theatres

The latest guidance will be published on GOV.​UK shortly.

Announcement: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/face-coverings-mandatory-in-shops-supermarkets-shopping-centres-and-enclosed-transport-hubs-from-friday

Regulations: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2020/791/contents/made