Covid badge that tells others: Keep your distance

FREE badges and lanyards are to be made available to members of the public worried about mixing with others because of the risk of Covid.

The badges and lanyards can be worn by people considered at high risk of Covid or those concerned about the virus, to show they prefer others to keep their distance.

The voluntary Distance Aware initiative was launched by Welsh thinktank The Bevan Commission following research that found 73 per cent of people in the highest-risk category said they would like to signal to others to give them extra space.

The Scottish Government has spent £55,500 to distribute badges through the scheme. Badges, pictured, and lanyards will be available from Wednesday at community and mobile libraries, and in Asda stores. They can also be ordered from the Scottish Government website free of charge, though a postage fee will be levied. Health Secretary

Humza Yousaf said: ‘This scheme not only provides vital reassurance to anyone who chooses to wear a badge or lanyard, but also encourages us all to be more aware and considerate of those around us, as we simply don’t know their circumstances or concerns.

‘I hope this will help people feel more confident and comfortable to go about their daily lives. The shield symbol can be worn by anyone.’ British Red Cross Scotland’s director of independent living, Marie Hayes, said: ‘We fully support the aims of the Distance Aware campaign.

‘Many people are experiencing loneliness, and are fearful of going out of their homes as a result of the pandemic.

‘Distance Aware can help overcome this and help them to re-engage with social activities.’