From 10th July face masks will become mandatory in shops, with exemptions for children under 5 and people with certain medical conditions.
The Scottish Government has been recommending the use of face masks for some time now. As of 22nd June, face coverings became mandatory on all public transport.
Yesterday we heard new changes to ease the coronavirus restrictions. This means more places in town will open such as outdoor cafes and beer gardens, and businesses with appropriate health and safety measure in place. Leisure travel restrictions are being lifted and children under 12 will no longer need to maintain physical distancing from other households outdoors.
“As we start to interact more, it is vital we take all reasonable steps to reduce risk, and we know that face coverings can reduce the risk of transmission indoors”, Nicola Sturgeon First Minister stated.
Re-useable fabric face masks – easy access for all
Many local people have already been busy making fabric masks for themselves, friends and family. It has been wonderful to see people’s generosity to help keep our community safe.
If you’d like to try making a mask yourself there is a Linlithgow Mask Makers Facebook group for local sewers to support each other sharing advice on sewing, materials and patterns.
Linlithgow Community Development Trust wants to make sure everyone in Linlithgow has easy access to re-usable face masks for shopping and using public transport. LCDT is inviting local sewers to contact pamela@trust-linlithgow.org.uk who would like to help. Financial support can be provided to purchase material. Thank you to those who have already been in touch.
A central drop-off point has been set up for donating masks. Initially these will be distributed to local people most in need of masks via links with community organisations working with vulnerable people in our town such as Linlithgow Link, 1st Step and Linlithgow Young People Project.
If you are a business or community group that is looking for face masks for your staff or volunteers please get in touch with pamela@trust-linlithgow.org.uk and LCDT can try to help.
Let’s help Linlithgow become and remain a coronavirus free zone.