Sheffield RSPCA store refused entry to disabled girl, 16, for not wearing a face covering

The girl, who was with her carer, was left ‘distraught’ after being denied entry to the RSPCA Charity Emporium store on Chesterfield Road, Woodseats, on Saturday, 3 October.

She was reportedly carrying her exemption card and a letter from her doctor, but was still not allowed to visit ‘her favourite shop’.

Her mother wrote on Facebook: “She’s not been out since February. On her first time out this happens, she’s distraught.

“They know her too, she goes in just that one shop, she doesn’t like other shops.”

In England, people who cannot wear a face covering because of a disability are exempt from wearing one by law. Government guidance states other people should be “mindful and respectful” of such circumstances and providing proof of this “is a personal choice and is not necessary in law.”

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said the incident is being investigated.

They told The Star: “The trustee body of the RSPCA Sheffield branch, which is a separately registered charity from the national RSPCA, is aware of this complaint and will be looking into it.

“The RSPCA recognises that there are age, health or disability reasons for not wearing a face covering and reminds staff to make sure they act sensitively to this. We know many local RSPCA branches rely on volunteers to deliver their services.

“In this case we have been informed the shop is mainly staffed by disabled volunteers - some with underlying health issues - and the decision was made by the shop, in discussion with these volunteers, to help protect them. The volunteers do all wear masks.

“We understand the other two RSPCA Sheffield Branch shops allow people in without a mask but with an exemption form as their staff do not have such issues.”

“The rule was brought in with good intentions as it was also thought this too would protect other customers too - we understand the branch will now be looking into this further.”