New card for those unable to wear face coverings

People in Renfrewshire with severe lung conditions and other disabilities will now be able to access a new face covering exemption card to help people show why they don’t need to use a face covering.

Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Scotland had called for greater support for people who are genuinely unable to wear a face covering due to their lung condition, after a survey by the organisation found that a third of people who are exempt from wearing a face covering have faced prejudice from other members of the public.

Face coverings became mandatory in shops and enclosed spaces across Scotland in July.

The First Minister had said that those whose health conditions would be negatively affected by wearing a mask were exempt, but many have been made to feel very uncomfortable when out in public.

From being questioned about their exemption, to refusal of entry to shops or on public transport, some people with lung conditions are left feeling too anxious to leave the house.

Joseph Carter, head of Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Scotland, said: “We are delighted to see that the Scottish Government has listened to our concerns and created this branded, government- backed exemption card and we hope this will prevent people with lung conditions facing further prejudice.”

“With the introduction of mandatory face coverings on transport, in shops and the hospitality sector we have received a large volume of calls to our helplines from those who are exempt.

“It is unacceptable that people are facing discrimination due to their medical conditions.”