Prepare for Test and Trace in Derby

Businesses in Derby and Derbyshire are being urged to prepare themselves for the national launch of the NHS COVID-19 app this Thursday 24th September. Companies can download relevant resources here today.

The app will be a critical enhancement – and for many a legal requirement – of NHS Test and Trace, providing users with local risk information and alerting them if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.

A built-in QR scanner supports easy check-in at venues including pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and cinemas who can have NHS QR code posters visible on entry so customers who have downloaded the app can use their smartphones to easily check-in.

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Every additional contact that the app traces will improve the tracing service and help reduce the spread of Coronavirus in and around Derby.

Dr Robyn Dewis, Director of Public Health for Bondholder Derby City Council, said:

“When we use the Test and Trace app or display a QR code in our establishments, we will all be supporting in the fight against COVID-19 and rising case numbers.

 “The app will be an invaluable tool in notifying the contacts of positive cases and preventing transmission across the city, therefore helping to keep ourselves and others safer. Let’s do the right thing for Derby and ensure that we have downloaded the app and that businesses across the city are compliant in displaying QR codes.”

A Stakeholder Briefing Pack has been made available by the NHS and can be accessed here.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Matt Hancock MP, said: “It is vital we are using the NHS Test and Trace system to reach as many people as possible to prevent outbreaks and stop this virus in its tracks. This function will make it simple and easy so we can keep this virus under control.”

He continued: “The more people who use the app, the better it will work – and it will help us get ahead of the virus, preventing a second wave, further local lockdowns, and further disruption to the economy.

“Businesses who are already using their own QR system are being encouraged to switch to the NHS Test and Trace QR code. An alternative check-in method must be maintained to collect the contact details of those who don’t have the app, for example a handwritten register.”

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Services included in the new legal requirements are:

• hospitality, including pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés;

• tourism and leisure, including gyms, swimming pools, hotels, museums, cinemas, zoos and theme parks;

• close contact services, including hairdressers; and

• facilities provided by local authorities, including town halls and civic centres (for events), libraries and children’s centres.

Managing Director of the NHS COVID-19 app, Simon Thompson, added: “We are now giving businesses the time to prepare their venues ahead of the app becoming available across England and Wales. We are working closely to engage, educate and inform them about how the app works and how they can play their part.

“The QR system is a free, easy and privacy preserving way to check-in customers to venues, and we encourage all businesses to get involved and download and display the official NHS QR code posters.”

The app complements the ‘Let’s Do The Right Thing for Derby’ campaign already launched by Derby City Council aimed at promoting safe behaviour during the pandemic.

Read the Government's full announcement here.

Read more on the City Council campaign here.