Free Distance Aware Posters, Badges, Lanyards
Author: Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2022/02/01 - Updated: 2025/12/17
Publication Type: Announcement
Category Topic: Awareness - Related Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This information describes the Distance Aware scheme, a voluntary program originating in Scotland that allows individuals to display a shield symbol to signal they would welcome additional space and consideration from others in public settings. The scheme emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic to help those at higher risk or experiencing anxiety about public interaction, and it remains available to anyone who feels they need extra care - whether due to health conditions, vulnerability concerns, or personal circumstances. Free badges and lanyards are distributed through libraries, participating retailers like ASDA, and online through the Scottish Government, making it accessible to anyone seeking a visual way to communicate their needs without disclosure of specific medical information. The program addresses a documented need identified through research showing that around 73% of people on the Highest Risk List wanted a way to signal to others for additional space, functioning as a tool for both individual reassurance and broader public awareness about disability and health accommodation - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
What is the Distance Aware Scheme?
Distance Aware is a Scottish voluntary scheme to encourage people to give space. The Distance Aware scheme is designed to help those on the Highest Risk List or anyone who feels worried about mixing with others as we adapt to living with COVID-19. Physical distancing has been an effective way of reducing an individual's risk of contracting COVID-19 and maintaining distance from others has been part of the Scottish Government's toolkit of protective measures during the pandemic.
The Scottish Government has joined the scheme set up by the Bevan Commission and adapted it following research which showed that almost three quarters (73%) of people on the Highest Risk List said they would like to signal to others to give them extra space. The scheme is open to everyone in Scotland who would like extra space or care around them, for whatever reason.
Main Content
Why is the Distance Aware Being Introduced?
Those living with health conditions, or those worried about contracting the virus for whatever reason, may be more worried about interacting with others in public settings such as shops, supermarkets, leisure or cultural venues, on public transport, and, in the workplace.
The shield symbol can be worn by anyone who would appreciate distance and consideration from others. It is not designed to identify those who have been shielding or who are at higher risk. The purpose of the scheme is to encourage the public to be more aware and considerate of others, and give those who are more worried the confidence that those around them will give them additional space.
Free Badges and Lanyards
Free badges and lanyards will be available to people who wish to show others they would welcome additional space and extra care while out in public.
The free badges and lanyards featuring the Distance Aware shield are now available for individuals to collect in libraries across Scotland. Badges are also available in ASDA stores and can be ordered online through participating charities. They can also be ordered from the Scottish Government website for a small postal fee.
Free Distance Aware Poster - 1
Distance Aware Quotes from Humza Yousaf, Marie Hayes, and Brian Boyle
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said:
"We are beginning to adapt to living with COVID-19 but we know that, for some people who have been at higher risk or feel anxious about going out in public, this is a big step."
"This scheme not only provides vital reassurance to anyone who chooses to wear a badge or lanyard, but also encourages us all to be more aware and considerate of those around us - as we simply don't know their circumstances or concerns."
"I hope this will help people feel more confident and comfortable to go about their daily lives. The shield symbol can be worn by anyone."
British Red Cross Scotland Director of Independent Living and Crisis Response Marie Hayes said:
"We fully support the aims of the Distance Aware campaign and will be proud to highlight the scheme to callers contacting our Connecting With You service. Many people are experiencing loneliness, and are fearful of going out of their own homes as a result of the pandemic."
"We believe Distance Aware can help overcome this and help them to re-engage with social activities. This could be invaluable in helping to tackle loneliness."
Asda Senior Director for Scotland Brian Boyle said:
"We are delighted to work with the Scottish Government to implement this scheme in Scotland. There has been interest in the free Distance Aware badges, particularly from our more vulnerable customers."
"As people become aware of the badge and its meaning, the more effective it will be in helping people to feel safer and less worried when they are out and about."
Free Distance Aware Poster - 2
Six Feet Not Far Enough Apart for COVID-19 Social Distancing: Article looks at examples of why social distancing should be a far greater distance than the recommended six feet currently advocated.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: The Distance Aware scheme represents a straightforward but meaningful approach to accessibility - one that operates through mutual respect rather than specialized infrastructure or complex logistics. By giving people a way to visually communicate their needs without explaining their circumstances, the scheme acknowledges a fundamental reality: that the reasons someone might need space are diverse and personal, and that strangers don't need to know the details to offer basic consideration. In this way, it sidesteps both the stigma of detailed disclosure and the assumption that everyone's needs are identical, treating accommodation as a matter of reciprocal courtesy rather than special favor. The model has proven durable enough to outlast the pandemic urgency that prompted it, suggesting that this kind of low-cost, dignity-preserving communication tool fills a genuine gap in how public spaces can become more inclusive - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.