FREE lanyards and badges will be made available to those who would like extra space and care while in public.
The Scottish Government has joined the Distance Aware Scheme, which began in Wales, after research showed three quarters of those on the highest risk list would like space in public.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “We are beginning to adapt to living with Covid-19 but we know that, for some people who have been at higher risk or feel anxious about going out in public, this is a big step.
“This scheme not only provides vital reassurance to anyone who chooses to wear a badge or lanyard, but also encourages us all to be more aware and considerate of those around us – as we simply don’t know their circumstances or concerns.
“I hope this will help people feel more confident and comfortable to go about their daily lives. The shield symbol can be worn by anyone.”
The scheme is a voluntary initiative to help those who feel worried about mixing with others as we adapt to the pandemic.
Director of independent living and crisis response for the British Red Cross Marie Hayes said: “We fully support the aims of the Distance Aware campaign and will be proud to highlight the scheme to callers contacting our Connecting With You service.
“Many people are experiencing loneliness, and are fearful of going out of their own homes as a result of the pandemic.
“We believe Distance Aware can help overcome this and help them to re-engage with social activities. This could be invaluable in helping to tackle loneliness.”
The Scottish Government has invested £55,500 in distributing badges and lanyards and promoting the scheme.
Asda senior director for Scotland Brian Boyle said: “We are delighted to work with the Scottish Government to implement this scheme in Scotland. There has been interest in the free Distance Aware badges, particularly from our more vulnerable customers.
“As people become aware of the badge and its meaning, the more effective it will be in helping people to feel safer and less worried when they are out and about.”
The badges and lanyards will be available free from libraries and Asda stores from January 26.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel