Dudley residents urged to sign up for new NHS Covid-19 app

The app goes live this Thursday (September 24) and following its launch people across England and Wales will be able to use a QR code to check-in to venues with their phone on entry, instead of filling out check-in books, to allow NHS Test and Trace to contact customers in the event of a Covid-19 outbreak.

Venues from hospitality, leisure and tourism, close contact services, places of worship and local authority venues across England are legally required to take part.

Using QR codes will help businesses to meet the new requirement to record contact details for customers, visitors and staff on their premises - council bosses say.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, Dudley's cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: "With coronavirus cases rising quickly in the region, it is essential that businesses capitalise on the benefits this app and the QR codes can bring to protect themselves, their business and their customers.

"I would also urge residents to download the app, it takes seconds to scan a QR code and it is a great way to help keep ourselves and others safe."

The app will rely on Bluetooth from smartphones to keep a log of others in also using the app in close proximity - within two metres for 15 minutes or more.

If a person presents symptoms of coronavirus or receives a positive test result, the app will seek permission to check codes with other app users.

If a code matches the log stored on a person's phone, it means they could have contracted the virus and will therefore be advised to self-isolate.

The app will not be able to track people's movements - as it only seeks permission to use Bluetooth, which will need to be switched on at all times to work properly.

It also requires permission to use the camera - for the QR codes feature in the app, which allows people to check into places such as restaurants.

People can find out more and how to sign up for the app online at covid19.nhs.uk.