Face coverings have become part of our daily lives, we have grown accustomed to wearing them on public transport and in shops. But what are the rules of wearing face coverings, how can you make one yourself and can you be fined for not wearing one?

Face coverings are used in public spaces where social distancing is not always possible.

The masks are designed to cover your mouth and nose to reduce transmission of coronavirus through droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.

You can buy reusable or single-use face coverings. A Scarf, bandana, religious garment, or hand-made cloth covering can alternatively be used, but these must securely fit round the side of the face.

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The Government advises that face coverings are intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission of virus.

There is a whole variety of situations where you may be required to wear a face mask.

In England face coverings are mandatory on public transport including at bus and train stations; in shops and shopping centres; in banks; in hair dressers and beauty salons; at attractions including museums, galleries and cinemas; libraries; places of worship; community centres; storage and distribution facilities and hotels.

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Visitors of these places are expected to wear a mask when entering and keep it on until leaving the building.

The police and Transport for London officers have the power to issue fines of £100, which if paid within 14 days for the first offence is reduced to £50.

However, for repeat offenders a second fine will amount to £200 and a third fine will be £400, up to a maximum value of £3,200.

There are some circumstances where face coverings are not needed, for example in a restaurant, cafe, or bar.

You also do not need to wear a mask if you are getting married, for ID when buying alcohol or exercising.

Some people are fully exempt from wearing masks for age, health, or disability reasons.

In these circumstances people should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this.

Homemade face masks are just as good as disposable, or shop bought reusable cloth face coverings.

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Instructions on how to make a simple face mask can be found on the Gov.UK website.

Face masks can be made at home just by using two small squares of fabric, two pieces of elastic and a needle and thread.

The Government advises that there is evidence that making the face mask with thicker fabrics or with multiple layers could cut the risk of transmission.

However, face coverings do also need to be breathable.

If you are interested in making batches of face coverings for your community visit The Big Community Sew website for ideas and tutorials.

Children can make their own face coverings, but it is advise that children should make them under adult supervision and design them so they are secured to the head using ear loops.