Facemask excemption letters.

Message regarding Facemask excemption letters. 

Wearing face coverings has become mandatory on public transport and comes into effect in shops on 24 July 2020.

We are aware that some patients might be understandably anxious about the Government’s recent announcements around the use of face masks in various public settings.

The BMA has advised GPS that we should not be placed in a position of responsibility or have any role in issuing letters of exemption.

The government guidance on exemptions suggests there is no requirement for evidence for exemption.

Therefore, it is sufficient for an individual to self-declare this. You can download a self-declaration form from the link below. However, please note that shops and public transport can still refuse you entry if you are not wearing a face covering.

The list of exemptions from wearing face-coverings include:

• If you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering.
• If putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress.
• If you are travelling with, or providing assistance to, someone who relies on lip reading to communicate.
• If you are travelling to avoid injury or escape the risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you.
• If you need to remove it during your journey to avoid harm or injury or the risk of harm or injury to yourself or others.
• If you need to eat, drink, or take medication you can remove your face covering.
• If you are asked to remove your face covering by a police officer or other official, for example to check your railcard.
• A child under the age of 11.

The full guidance can be found at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own#exemptions-to-wearing-a-face-covering-where-they-are-mandated

You can download or print an excemption card in the link below:

LINK TO DOWNLOAD FORM