Shops Could Face Legal Action If Disabled People Are Turned Away Over Masks
Shops and public transport providers could face legal action if people who are exempt from wearing face masks due to their disability are turned away, legal experts have warned.
Face masks in shops were made compulsory on Friday, with face coverings on public transport becoming mandatory in mid-June.
Multiple health experts have suggested wearing face masks and coverings is key to preventing a second wave in the UK. But while the science indicates that masks could help protect others from contracting the virus, campaigners have warned that the obstructive nature of face coverings could cause serious problems for disabled people.
With this in mind thousands of people with disabilities that prevent them from wearing a mask were made exempt, but there are fears that the new rules could lead discrimination against in public places – with incidents of disabled people facing confrontation already being reported.
Now legal experts have warned that shops, supermarkets and public transport providers could face legal action if staff turn away disabled people who are exempt from wearing masks.
Imogen Jolley from solicitors Simpson Millar said: “The legislation clearly states that some people are exempt from the new rules which require members of the public to wear a face covering when in a shop, confined public space, or on public transport.
“However, while it’s relatively easy to see if a child is of a certain age, some disabilities are less apparent and there are worrying reports to suggest that some people are being singled out as a result. That amounts to discrimination.
“It’s absolutely essential that supermarket chiefs and shop managers act now to educate their employees over the rights of disabled people specifically with the terms of the new rules in mind to prevent individuals being refused entry, turned away or asked to leave.
“If not, they would be in breach of the Regulations introduced in relation to the wearing of face coverings and potentially...