Scotland ditches face masks for care home staff, visitors and home care workers

Scotland has ditched face masks for staff and visitors in its care homes as well as care workers giving home care

The change in guidance by the Scottish government is due to a sharp drop in coronavirus infections and a reduction in the severity of illness, and will come into force from 14 September.

Social Care Minister Kevin Stewart said: “Our phenomenally successful vaccination programme has driven down infections and saved the NHS from untold pressures.

“Removing the need for face masks in social care settings including care homes is the latest step in our path to recovering from the pandemic.

“This will make communication and relationships easier in care settings, benefiting mental health and promoting the rights and choices of those working in and using social care.”

Care providers in Scotland are being advised to ditch face masks for its staff and visitors as soon as possible from 14 September, or earlier if they are ready to do so.

Masks and face coverings in care homes and care at home may still be recommended in certain situations, such as a local outbreak of Covid, or if staff deem it necessary. Staff and visitors remain free to wear one if they choose.

England

In England, the guidance currently states 'face masks should be worn by all care workers and encouraged for visitors in care settings and when providing care in people’s own homes, irrespective of whether the person being cared for is known or suspected to have Covid-19 or not'.

Wales

The Welsh government announced care home visitors no longer had to wear masks from 30 May. However the guidance is still in place for care home staff and home care workers.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, face masks are still required for care home staff, visitors and home care workers.

To read the guidance on use of face coverings in social care settings in Scotland, click here