People asked not to "jump to conclusions" over those without masks

Wednesday 24 February 2021

Masks have become a part of daily life for many in the community. Whether it’s in the shops or a busy street, most people will have a face covering – but some will not.

Some people have a valid reason for not being able to wear a mask, and an appeal is being made discouraging people from jumping to conclusions.

Disability charity ‘We All Matter, Eh?’ has been made aware of a number of instances of people being shouted at for not wearing masks.

“We ask that people are more tolerant and respectful,” said Partnership Director at the Guernsey Disability Alliance, Karen Blanchford. “People should bear in mind the reasons why people might not be wearing a mask.”

Pictured: It’s now mandatory for people to wear masks when in indoor public spaces and there are fixed penalty notices of up to £100 for people who breach the rules. Law Enforcement have not issued any to date. 

There are a huge number of hidden disabilities and Ms Blanchford said people often don’t want to draw attention to them: “It’s never ok to ask people what condition they have."

In the past, sunflower lanyards were used to make others aware of the fact that someone has a hidden disability.

The lanyards have also been given a new use during lockdown, so people don’t have to explain why they aren’t wearing a mask. Exemption cards are available from the States of Guernsey as well.

“It started as a travel option, but has been adapted,” said Ms Blanchford of the lanyards. “No-one has to have one, it is a choice.”

Pictured: “Interacting in a shop can be more difficult for people with hidden disabilities such as dementia,” said Ms Blanchford.

Masks became mandatory on 13 February with a full list of exemptions published on the States of Guernsey website. It’s not clear when the rules around masks will change and during one media briefing, the head of the CCA, Deputy Peter Ferbrache, said the rules will be in place "for as long as they need to be.”

People who need a lanyard can collect one from all Co-Op Grande Marche customer service desks or contact Health Connections to have one delivered; you can email shop@healthconnections.gg or call 707470.