In a world where formal shielding is a long-distant memory and the immuno-compromised cohort are having to navigate ‘normal’ life as safely as they can, it's up to each individual to manage human contact in whatever way they feel most comfortable (or least uncomfortable, to be strictly accurate).

Immuno-compromised lanyards have been produced by someone in exactly this position who, on making her first long train journey since the start of the pandemic, wanted to maximise her safety. A badge wasn't appropriate because of its limited visibility and none of the available lanyards quite fitted the bill. It needed to be something clear, simple and to the point, and not specific to any particular health condition.

In trials we proved that wearing one does help and does work – on a hospital outpatient visit the nurse in charge clocked the lanyard on directing the patient to a particular waiting area and suggested an alternative quieter area; on another train trip a passenger sat down opposite the wearer, saw the lanyard, and immediately asked if it was OK to sit there or should he move.

There will always be those who simply take no notice but there are many good, considerate people out there and, if nothing else, wearing the lanyard alerts others to the fact that some people are still having to be incredibly careful. It can also be a conversation starter and a way of educating people which is never a bad thing where health conditions are concerned.

"Many thanks, this is an excellent top-quality item and a great idea. Just what I needed at this time when I am getting out a little more. Much appreciated fast service."