MP urges everyone in Burnley and Padiham to download new NHS Covid-19 app

The app, which has now launched across England and Wales, will alert users if they have been close to someone who later tests positive for coronavirus, as well as providing risk alerts based on a user’s postcode.

It will also allow users to scan QR codes to check in at venues on the app and to book tests, if they have symptoms.

The app works by logging the amount of time a person spends near other app users, and the distance between you, so it can alert you if someone you have been close to later tests positive for Covid-19 – even if they don’t know each other.

The app will advise the person to self-isolate if they have been in close contact with a confirmed case.

The UK’s major mobile network operators, including Vodafone, Three, EE and O2, Sky and Virgin, have confirmed that all in-app activity will not come out of customers’ data allowance.

Businesses are now required by law to display NHS Test and Trace QR code posters so customers with the NHS Covid-19 app can use it to check-in to venues.

So far, more than 90,000 businesses have already downloaded QR codes. Venues in Wales that are legally required to collect and keep a record of visitors will still need to do so.

The app has been through successful trials in the Isle of Wight, Newham and among NHS Volunteer Responders, with lessons learned informing the final version that is launching today.

Burnley MP Antony Higginbotham said: “The NHS Test and Trace app is an important tool which will help us in our battle against the threat coronavirus still poses to our community.

“I urge everyone in Burnley and Padiham who can to download this new app to do so as soon as possible.

“It’s crucial that in this period we all do our bit and of course, it is vital that we all continue to follow those rules of ‘Hands, Face, Space’, and that people self-isolate when told to do so.”

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We are at a tipping point in our efforts to control the spread of this virus. With infection rates rising we must use every tool at our disposal to prevent transmission, including the latest technology.

“We have worked extensively with tech companies, international partners, and privacy and medical experts – and learned from the trials – to develop an app that is secure, simple to use and will help keep our country safe.

“Today’s launch marks an important step forward in our fight against this invisible killer and I urge everyone who can to download and use the app to protect themselves and their loved ones.”