The introduction of the requirement for people to wear a face covering whilst in a shop is intended to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

There are certain groups of people who are exempt from this requirement and they include:

• children under the age of 11,
• people with disabilities
• those with breathing difficulties or
• those who are travelling with someone who relies on lip reading.

These groups of people, their parents or guardians are able to indicate the reason, if required, as to why they are not wearing a face covering.

General practice is under considerable pressure as a direct result of the current challenges they are faced with delivering a service to patients at the same time as coping with the consequences of this virus.

There is no requirement for general practice to issue letters for patients who are unable to wear face coverings, as the Government have clearly defined the exemptions to this requirement.

General practice needs to focus all its time and effort managing those who need their help and not be diverted from this by unnecessary tasks.

Many thanks for your help and support in this matter.