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Residents in South Tyneside are being advised that they will have to wear a face covering when entering council buildings from tomorrow (Saturday 8 August).

Unless exempt due to an age, health or disability reason, government guidance stipulates that it will be mandatory from tomorrow to wear a face covering in a number of shared indoor areas. These places include libraries, museums, community centres and places of worship.

The updated government guidance also strongly encourages the use of face coverings in other indoor public spaces where social distancing may be difficult and where people are likely to come into contact with others they do not know.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader with responsibility for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "Scientific evidence suggests that wearing a face covering can reduce the spread of coronavirus droplets and help protect those around you.

"It remains vitally important that we all continue to follow the public health guidance around social distancing and hand washing to help keep our communities safe."

Councillor Dixon added: "At multi-purpose buildings such as Hebburn Central and Jarrow Focus, people will need to wear a covering when entering the building or using the library but will be able to remove it when using the leisure facilities.

"At all other Council buildings residents will be asked to wear face coverings when they enter the building. This also applies to those who are attending funerals and weddings. I would encourage everyone to co-operate with our staff who are following the guidance in helping to curb the spread of the virus."

Staff working in Council buildings will be exempt from wearing a face covering as  workplace health and safety assessments have already been carried out and they are working in  COVID-secure environments.