Dundee City East MSP, Shona Robison, has welcomed the launch of a face covering exemption card, to support those who are unable to wear one to feel more confident and safer when accessing public spaces and using public services.
The Scottish Government was the first of the devolved administrations to produce guidance on the use of face coverings – recognising exemptions where people are unable to, or it would be inappropriate to, wear a face covering.
These include exemptions due to health conditions or disabilities, or for those providing care for someone with a health condition or disability, or if a face covering cannot be applied and worn in the proper manner safely and consistently.
The exemption policy was developed in consultation with a disabled people’s organisation and the initial message received was that the onus should be placed on society to be accepting and understanding of exemptions, rather than for the individual to prove their exemption. However, following further consultation with a range of equality stakeholders it was determined that a card be created to provide people who are exempt with a tool to help them feel comfortable to actively participate in society without fear.
Physical and digital cards are available to request online from 29 October at www.exempt.scot or via a free helpline on 0800 121 6240.
Commenting Shona Robison said:
“In response to feedback from organisations, groups and individuals on their experiences of accessing services while being exempt from wearing face coverings it was recognised that many would feel reassured by having some form of identification which helps to avoid any misunderstandings.
We need to show understanding and compassion towards those who are unable to wear a face covering and I hope that the introduction of this scheme will help in that understanding.
The fact that a digital card can be downloaded to a phone will also make it more accessible to many”
Morven Brooks, Chief Executive Officer of Disability Equality Scotland, said:
“Since face coverings became mandatory, we have been inundated with calls from our members, many of whom cannot wear face coverings for a variety of health reasons.
“The launch of the Scottish Government exemption card will help disabled people to feel more comfortable and confident to go about their daily lives free from fear of harassment and abuse.”
Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Scotland, said:
“We are pleased that a Government backed exemption card has been created and we hope this will ensure no one faces any more prejudice during this very stressful time.”
ENDS