FACE MASKS will become mandatory in indoor spaces in Wales after the weekend.

As Penarth adjusts to the announcement, Nub News thought we should try to clear up any questions you might have.

1. Why the change in advice?

The First Minister Mark Drakeford said the change was because 20 people in every 100,000 in Wales now had Covid-19, as the UK infection R number rose to 1.2.

The town of Caerphilly has recently entered a period of local lockdown after cases there spiked. The nearby county of Merthyr Tydfil is said to be on the brink of following suit. "Enhanced public health action" is being taken there and in Rhondda Cynon Taff.

The Vale of Glamorgan currently has no recorded coronavirus cases, but the measure applies nationally.

2. Where do I need to wear one?

Face coverings were made mandatory on public transport in Wales in July. This policy remains in place.

The First Minister today (11 September) said that face masks must be worn in shops and "enclosed public spaces" as of Monday 14 September.

According to the Welsh Government, this includes: banks, building societies, post offices, places of worship, museums, galleries, entertainment venues, libraries and public reading rooms.

3. How about pubs and restaurants?

The measure is expected to operate in line with GOV.UK's guidance, which advises the following with regard to hospitality venues:

Face coverings are not required in restaurants with table service, bars and pubs. If other indoor premises have a café or seating area for you to eat and drink, then you can remove your face covering in this area only. You must put a face covering back on once you leave your seating area. If removing your face covering to eat or drink in an indoor premises with a café or designated seating area, then you can remove your face covering in this area only..

4. What about kids?

Masks are only mandatory for those aged over 11.

For secondary school pupils in Wales, masks are recommended but have not been made mandatory by the government.

After the Local Authority "strongly recommend[ed]" that children wear masks "where social distancing is not possible", Stanwell School formally recommended that children wear masks in school.

Nub News has heard reports that mask-wearing in the school is not being strictly enforced by teachers nor adhered to among students.

However, after Mr Drakeford's announcement today, teachers have apparently told students that masks will become compulsory on Monday.

5. Who doesn't have to wear one?

People with related underlying health conditions do not have to don masks.

They are not legally obliged to carry any proof of exemption, but the Civic Medical Centre has produced these cards for people to display when challenged if they wish:

Cards

Please let Penarth Nub News know if there is anything about the new measure that you are unsure of and we will try to clear things up.