Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton welcomes a new scheme to help those who wish to show others they would welcome additional space while out in public.
With restrictions easing, many still feel uncomfortable about busy places and crowds of people. The Distance Aware scheme is a voluntary initiative to help those on the Highest Risk List or anyone who feels worried about mixing with others as we adapt to living with COVID-19.
The Distance Aware scheme was first developed by the Bevan Commission for Wales. The Scottish Government has worked with the Commission to adopt the scheme and adapt it for Scotland.
Free badges and lanyards will be available to people who wish to show others they would welcome additional space and extra care while out in public.
The Scottish Government has joined the scheme set up by the Bevan Commission and adapted it following research which showed that almost three quarters (73%) of people on the Highest Risk List said they would like to signal to others to give them extra space.
From 26th January, the badges and lanyards with the easily-recognisable shield symbol will be available free from all community and mobile libraries in Scotland. Badges will also be free from Asda stores.
They can be ordered from the Scottish Government website for a small postal fee.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“The Distance Aware Scheme is a fantastic initiative which will help people who are worried about going out and about with the restrictions easing.
“It is about giving everyone the opportunity to feel safe with normality returning.
“I know constituents who will benefit from this scheme and it will help people adapt to daily life as we learn to live with the presence of the virus.
“I would encourage anyone who is on the Highest Risk List or their loved ones to collect or order a badge”.
