Following the decision by the Scottish and English governments to make the wearing of face masks compulsory within stores, the NFRN has created guidance for members, so they better understand the new legislation and can communicate the new policy with customers.

The guidance outlines the responsibilities of store owners and explains exemptions, including children under five years of age in Scotland, children under the age of 11 in England and those with mitigating health conditions.

The NFRN has also compiled a list of best practice recommendations for members to use to remind customers about the law and when dealing with those who do not comply.

Wales and Northern Ireland have yet to require the wearing of face masks in retail premises.

NFRN’s National President Stuart Reddish said: “The Federation has created this guidance to help members better understand the new regulations regarding face masks within stores.

“As many factors – such as who is exempt from wearing a face mask – have caused confusion amongst our members, we hope that this guidance will bring some clarity to independent store owners.”

The guidance and best practice, plus a poster that members can display in their stores, can be downloaded from NFRNOnline.com.