Polite boundaries for rule breakers

[MrsNotNice]

Hi,

So I know live and let live,
But if there’s a polite way to remind people of the rules without making them defensive , could you point me to it?

For example, I was sat in the tube with a baby on my lap and a woman came sat right next to us even though there was seats available away from us.

I couldn’t leave as my buggy was next to me with my toddler.

So I spent the rest of the journey standing up with a baby because my baby won’t settle in the pram.

What would you have said/done?

Could you sit somewhere else please.

'Would you mind moving please? We are following strict social-distancing rules. There are seats available there (point to appropriate seats).'

Why am I too scared to say that :S?

I guess it’s because it’s a public place and it feels like I’m publically shaming ?

The trouble with interacting with strangers is that you never know who you are dealing with.

A man insisted on standing right behind me, no mask, practically breathing down my neck. I kept moving up to make space, which he kept taking. Eventually I said, "hey would you mind backing up a bit? I'm trying to keep a safe distance here."

The look he gave me - I really thought he was going to turn nasty. When I turned around to face forward again, he muttered "bitch" under his breath.

Make one of those signs that are in restaurants and cafes, and take it with you. Stick it on the seat next to you next time.

In all seriousness, it's tricky. People seem to be behaving as though nothing is happening and have forgotten about social distancing.

Cam2020

That is actually something I will consider. I considered putting my bag on the seat next to me next time. I feel like some might see it as rude.

AmandaHoldensLips

You’re right I have no faith in strangers and with two young ones I would feel rather threatened if someone turned around and replied aggressively.

So I guess prevention is best. I’ll just either put my bag or put up a sign on the seat next to me.

@MrsNotNice
I know what you mean, usually something on a seat us a complete no-no, but I think at the moment it's completely allowable and might make people think.

It's such a shame we can't trust people to be reasonable and almost expect a hostile reaction.

"Hello! You've chosen to sit very close to me, so I just wanted to reassure you that I don't think I have covid. The children and I have all been throwing up from a stomach bug for days, though, so I apologise in advance if I get sick on you!"

@CousinKrispy