Supermarket sign encouraging shopping alone and face coverings

Light and dark green Waitrose sign reading ‘Please shop alone to help others, Shop alone whenever possible’ with a graphic of a person holding a basket, ‘Please wear a face covering, You must where a face covering, unless exempt’ with a graphic of a person wearing a face covering, ‘Please keep a safe distance, Keep a safe distance at all times’ with a graphic of a footprint, and ‘We’ll give priority entry to elderly, disabled or vulnerable customers, and to NHS workers and carers. Thank you for your understanding.’

During the first national lockdown, where possible, people were encouraged to shop alone to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Staying at least two metres apart and not socialising with anyone you did not live with was the strictest version of social distancing in England. People were reminded of the rules by signs and by staff. It is estimated that spending more than 15 minutes within two metres of a person with COVID-19 can pass on the virus.

In England face coverings were first advised in May 2020, followed by mandatory wearing in June 2020 on public transport, unless exempt. Face covering rules were widened to most public places by August 2020. On 18 July 2021, face coverings were no longer mandatory, but rules turned on 30 November 2021, as COVID cases began to rise. By April 2022, face coverings were no longer required by law, but many places continue to recommend them including healthcare providers.