To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it has given to introducing social distancing badges or lanyards similar to those developed in Wales to support people who are at higher risk from COVID-19 to indicate to others that they need to maintain physical distancing in public places.

Current status: Answered by Jeane Freeman on 13 August 2020

Physical distancing and good hand hygiene are the most effective measures in preventing the spread of Covid-19, and the Scottish Government is not considering introducing physical distancing badges or lanyards.

Although significant progress has been made in reducing the spread of the virus, The Scottish Government is clear that the risk to the public remains significant, especially for those in the higher risk and shielding categories. For this reason it is critical that everyone, but especially those in these high risk groups, follow our FACTS guidance, namely:

• Face Coverings in enclosed spaces
• Avoid crowded places
• Clean hands and surfaces regularly
• Two metre distancing; and
• Self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms