A MAN who suffered a panic attack wearing a mask says he thinks more should be done to ensure shops and businesses realise people can be exempt from wearing one.

Duncan Husband says shops across Worcestershire have signs about masks that go too far, and don’t take into account those who have valid reasons for not wearing one.

The government’s guidance lists the indoor settings masks are compulsory, and says: “Please be mindful and respectful of such circumstances, noting that some people are less able to wear face coverings, and that the reasons for this may not be visible to others.”

Mr Husband, from Evesham, said this part of the guidance was not getting through to some businesses, and he had to explain his reasons for not wearing one when challenged by staff in some county shops.

“I don’t mind explaining, or wearing a lanyard (to show he was exempt),” Mr Husband said.

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"But for others this could be an issue, having to keep explaining their reasons.

"I have seen notices up which can seem quite insensitive and even aggressive.

"This does put people off who are exempt and if the exemption is due to mental health issues, this could be exacerbated.

"It can also cause bad feeling between businesses and their customers.

"The government give downloadable exemption graphics to make into badges and lanyards, why not a poster saying ‘mask musts be worn, but if you are exempt not a problem’.

"There is no standard recommended wording.”

He highlighted a case involving Evesham Post Office, that was shared on social media, where a notice was put up saying: “You must be wearing a face covering or be wearing a lanyard showing your exemption. If you have neither you will be asked to leave.”

Mr Husband said: “After a polite online conversation with a member of the public, they realised this was the wrong approach and removed the sign.

"This could be all it needs to make people realise that their notice is causing distress."

A Post Office spokesperson said: “It’s down to independent postmasters to decide what is the best way to ensure their customers are aware of the UK Government rules when it comes to wearing a face covering inside a branch.

"Postmasters and their staff are wearing masks and have posters on display inside their branch advising customers that it is mandatory to wear a face covering unless exempt.”

Rosie Weatherley, from the Mind charity said: “It’s important to remember that wearing a lanyard, carrying an exemption card, or other signifier, are support tools designed to help exempt individuals feel more comfortable when accessing public spaces without a face covering.

"They are not mandatory, and no one should be judged for not wearing one.

“Unfortunately, if you can’t wear a mask, you might find that not everyone is supportive or understanding which can be really difficult to cope with.

"Mind’s online peer support group Side by Side is a supportive community where you can share your experiences with other people who may be going through similar things.”