Community Guidance On Use

WHY DO THIS?

The UK Free Masks initiative has been designed to primarily to assist with the slowing of the CV-19 virus in regional communities across the UK.  At the same time safeguard all medically rated PPE for the NHS and all other emergency services where necessary.

WHO IT CAN HELP?

Within your community you can help with the making and distribution of home made face masks.  These masks could be used for the following groups of the community who are still involved in essential social engaging efforts;

  1. Social care workers
  2. Taxi drivers transporting carers and potentially patients
  3. All NHS volunteers
  4. You if you are the designated member of your household making essential trips for food, medical supplies and so on.

HOW TO USE YOUR MASK?

If you have been given a home made mask from a member of your community involved in the making of these, please ensure you follow the following use steps;

  1. Clean your mask by either placing it in a dry, out of the way location for a minimum of four hours (ideally overnight) or should it be soiled you can wash in hot water (typically the maximum temperature setting for the fabric type) and leave to dry (detergents are not essential).  Please note that if your fabric contains a poly blend then it will need washed in hot water.
  2. Before putting your mask on, wash your hands.
  3. Insert a filter material on the inside of the mask at the designated opening.  One to two pieces of toilet or kitchen roll will be sufficient, but please make sure you can still breathe easy.
  4. Ensure when fitting your mask, the nose wire is pinched.
  5. Ensure the ties are secure and your mask will not slip for the duration of time you will be wearing it.
  6. Your mask should cover from the bridge of your nose to your chin.

HOW DO I REQUEST ONE?

We are in the process of creating a group of regional makers at the moment, and requesting support from the UK Goverment.  Meantime please complete our Community Needs Form

IF I DO NOT HAVE A MASK?

If you do not have a mask then please follow the same use guidelines and use scarves, bandana's or similar items to wear when you are out doing essential social work.