Lanyards for those who need them from shops, third sector
SHOPS and third sector organisations are providing people with access to lanyards to help them show they are exempt from wearing a face covering.
Several reached out following the first day of mandatory face coverings in indoor public places on Saturday.
Maddy Diligent, campaigns and events co-ordinator for mental health charity Guernsey Mind, said it was there for anyone who was concerned about the face coverings requirement.
‘We very much understand that some people may struggle with wearing face coverings and Guernsey Mind can be contacted directly for assistance or guidance as to where lanyards and exemption cards can be found,’ she said.
Headway Guernsey, a local charity supporting islanders, and their families, who are living with the devastating effects of brain injury, said it was in regular contact via phone with all of its members, ensuring they were supported and well.
‘Some of our members already use the lanyards, but we do have a supply available for those who don’t,’ said Philippa Stahelin, the charity’s executive director and trustee.
‘We have already contacted any member we believe might need one if they find wearing a mask difficult and we have delivered a couple to those who have asked.
‘We are all doing well and the members are showing enormous resilience as we wait and hope to start moving out of lockdown in the coming weeks.’
The Co-op has lanyards at its Grand Marche stores in St Martin’s and St Sampson’s.
Community and sustainability manager Ell Hopton said it continued to champion the scheme.
‘Our hidden disability sunflower lanyard scheme continues to run in all of our stores,’ she said.
‘We want to make the shopping experience with us inclusive to all islanders and would like to remind members and customers that lanyards are available from our Grand Marche customer services desks should they require one.’
To contact Guernsey Mind, visit www.guernseymind.org.gg/contact.
