Children in Dorset must wear face coverings on school buses

The new rules come in from Monday.

Students travelling in Wiltshire Council's dedicated school and college transport will be affected by the rule change
Author: Maria Greenwood Published 18th Sep 2020

Children in Dorset will be asked to wear face coverings on buses from Monday.

Dorset Council say they are trying to minimise any potential risk.

The new rules come into play for secondary and upper school students using school transport.

There will be some exceptions for young people who are exempt.

'Who is exempt?'

Young people exempt from wearing face coverings include anyone who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability.

Anyone speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expression to communicate is also exempt.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said:

"We continue to monitor and review the situation in order to minimise any potential risk. As a result we are asking secondary and upper school students in Dorset to wear a face covering on school transport from Monday unless they are exempt.

"This is to keep everyone safe and reassure drivers. Our message to our young people is thank you for wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others."