Parents Urged to Mask Up on the School Run Amid Lockdown
Parents have been hit with a fresh plea to help keep the community safe by wearing face coverings during the school run. With schools staying open throughout the Government’s planned four-week lockdown, local officials are doubling down on safety measures.
Council Demands Masks and Social Distancing
The council’s cabinet member for children has urged parents to wear face masks when dropping off or picking up their kids. They have also been told to avoid lingering around the school gates.
A letter sent to parents on 16 October spells it out clearly:
- Wear a face covering unless exempt
- Keep at least one metre distance if masked, two metres if not
- Leave the school area immediately after drop-off or pick-up
Why Face Coverings Matter
Face coverings protect others by covering the nose and mouth — the primary ways COVID-19 spreads. While schools have implemented bubbles, hand sanitiser stations, and staggered times to keep classrooms safe, parents must do their bit during arrivals and departures.
To help, a limited supply of face masks will be available at schools for parents who forget to bring one.
“Schools have worked incredibly hard to maintain safety with bubbles, hand sanitiser, staggered start and finish times, and other measures,” said the cabinet member. “Now, with lockdown on the horizon, we urge parents who can wear masks to do so on the school run. Please keep your distance and leave promptly after collecting your children.”
“We understand some parents have children in different year groups with varying pick-up times, but those with one collection time should head straight home.”
Face Covering Exemptions and More Info
Not everyone must wear a face mask. A full list of exemptions is available on the Government website.
