A DIY store has adopted strident measures to contain Covid-19 - by telling customers: No mask, no entry

Staff at Homebase, in Basildon, have made their feelings clear with a new sign with the “no mask” instruction emblazoned across it.

They make it clear customers without masks will not be allowed into the store without a mask unless they have a medical exemption letter.

The firm notice has sparked debate, with some concerns being raised over the impact this will have on those who are medically exempt.

A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “This is a big issue for those who can’t wear masks. They face insults from other shoppers and abuse online too.

“It’s not just those with respiratory conditions, it’s people with autism, learning difference and anxiety-related conditions and those with post-traumatic stress disorder.

“I spoke to the manager who said the sign was lawful and that they’d ‘taken advice’ and it was not denial of service as there is click and collect available, they can wait outside and staff will take order out to them.

“I said I would wait for the court case as to my knowledge of the Equality Act, this is not a suitable reasonable adjustment on several counts.

“I have also checked with Disability Rights UK and verified it could well be unlawful.”

However, other residents have shown support for Homebase.

Jonathan Jackson, from Langdon Hills, said: “I don’t see anything wrong with it.

“I’ve got cystic fibrosis and so has my daughter. We both have critical lung conditions and are on medicine for the rest of our lives. They told me I shouldn’t wear a mask but do you think I’m not going to put a mask on? If I was to catch it I probably wouldn’t be here. I would definitely be putting a mask on.”

Mark Edwards, from Langdon Hills, added: “It’s likely that they’ve had problems in the past with people coming in, not wearing masks and when they’ve been challenged they’ve probably had a hard time.

“Shops are private premises and they are entitled to have in their shop who they want, when they want, and if they say that you can’t come in without a mask or exemption then I think that’s reasonable in the circumstances.”

A Homebase spokesperson said: “In line with government guidance, we ask all customers to wear a mask when shopping with us, unless medically exempt - and there is no requirement to prove medical exemption. This was a one-off instance, which has now been replaced with the approved signage provided to all Homebase stores.”

Basildon mayor, David Burton-Sampson welcomed tougher rules but warned retailers need to be compliant with official guidance on exemptions.