You must wear a face covering when travelling on public transport from Monday 15 June
In line with the latest Government guidance, face coverings must be worn for the full duration of journeys on public transport from Monday 15 June.
Yours protects them and theirs protects you - Scientific advice says that face coverings can help reduce the chance of infecting others while out in public.
However, it is important to remember that face coverings are not a replacement for social distancing and you should still do this wherever possible alongside regular hand washing.
Why do I need to wear a face covering on public transport?
When using public transport people may be more likely to be in enclosed spaces for longer periods of time where. We know this means there is a greater risk of the virus spreading and social distancing is likely to be difficult to follow consistently. This differs from enclosed spaces like shops, for example, where people can more easily go outside if social distancing is not possible and where shop owners can place limits on the number of customers allowed inside at any one time. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) has set out that using face coverings in this setting can provide some small additional protection to fellow passengers and can help people to avoid unknowingly spreading the virus if they are suffering from coronavirus, but not showing symptoms.
What will happen if I don't wear a face covering?
You are not allowed to get on public transport if you are not wearing a face covering unless you have a legitimate reason for not wearing one, please find the list of people exempt from wearing a face covering https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#exemptions-face-coverings.
Transport staff may tell you not to board or ask you to get off.
If you refuse to wear a face covering, you can receive a fine from the police. The fixed penalty notice will require you to pay £100 (reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days).
What is a face covering?
Face coverings can be a simple cloth or scarf that covers the nose and mouth. They can be homemade from things you can find around the house or shop-bought.
Find out how you can make yours and tips while you wear it, by visiting our dedicated webpage https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/network-overview/advice-while-travelling-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/face-coverings/
Source: Personal email