PEOPLE who are unable to wear a face covering can let others know by wearing a lanyard inside a Basingstoke shopping centre.

Festival Place has announced that those with hidden disabilities who are unable to wear a mask can pick up a special sunflower lanyard to wear.

The centre has been part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme since the beginning of this year, offering support to people with disabilities that are not always obvious, such as dementia, autism and visual or hearing impairments.

The lanyards act as sign that the wearer may require extra assistance.

Since July 24, it has been compulsory for people to wear a face covering in shops and shopping centres, however, for some, this can cause distress.

Festival Place director Neil Churchill said: “For the health and safety of our customers and colleagues, we back the government’s stance on wearing face coverings in and around the centre. However, we are mindful that some people have health conditions which could mean wearing a covering could cause difficulty, pain or severe distress or anxiety.

“This is why we have embraced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme and will provide anyone with the sunflower lanyards if they are unable to wear face coverings. We have always prided ourselves on how we help those with hidden disabilities making sure that our centre is accessible to everyone and this is no time for exceptions.”

Paul White, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower chief executive officer, added: “I am delighted that Festival Place has joined the Sunflower Lanyard Scheme as part of their commitment to make their shopping centre accessible to everyone. Wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to subtly indicate that you have a hidden disability means that people living with hidden disabilities can visit Festival Place knowing that they will be supported if they need extra assistance or just a little more time.”