After a review of the latest data, as of 27 January, face coverings are no longer required by law in England in the vast majority of settings.
The exception to this is in health and care settings, where visitors are still required to wear face coverings to comply with infection prevention control and adult social care guidance. This includes settings such as GP surgeries, hospitals and care homes.
The Government’s advice remains that you should consider wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with people you do not normally meet. Of course, customers, visitors or staff are able to wear a face covering in any setting should they choose to do so.
All coronavirus related measures are kept under close review.
It is important to note that domestic legal restrictions ended on 24 February, with COVID-19 guidance evolving to reflect advice around preventing other infectious diseases. However, public health advice for people to voluntarily wear face coverings in crowded or enclosed spaces will remain in place until 1 April.
Nevertheless, I appreciate the concerns that the wearing of face coverings will no longer be mandatory. Please be assured that public health guidance will remain in place to advise individuals to wear face coverings in crowded or enclosed spaces.
I recognise the particular challenges these changes may present for the clinically extremely vulnerable, and I am assured that guidance for individuals in this group will be updated shortly. The Prime Minister has been clear that the pandemic is not yet over, and that vigilance is required over the coming months.
I understand that in some circumstances, people may not be able to wear a face covering and are exempt from the legal requirement to wear one.
Individuals’ reasons for not wearing a face covering are often sensitive and may not be obvious. Respect and understanding must be shown to those who have good reasons not to wear a face covering and evidence is not required to prove such an exemption. While some may prefer to carry an exemption card, this remains a personal choice.
People with a reasonable excuse should not be routinely asked to give written evidence of their exemption. More information on exemptions, and exemption cards, can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own
I am also aware that some companies, for example airlines, require a medical letter as proof for exemption for not wearing a covering.
Finally, government guidance defines a face covering as "something which safely covers the nose and mouth", suggesting single-use face coverings, scarfs, bandanas, religious garments, or hand-made cloth coverings. The guidance also states that a face covering "must securely fit round the side of the face".
A face shield, or visor, does not comply with the above specifications. I would strongly encourage everyone to use a face covering of the style outlined by the Government here:
The Government has already stated that visors are not enough to cover mouths and noses, and that they are not a substitute for a face covering.