MP Rachel Maclean is urging Redditch residents to play their part in the fight against coronavirus by downloading the new NHS Covid-19 app.

Launched today (Thursday, September 24) after rigorous testing and successful trials, the NHS Covid-19 app will alert users if they have been close to someone who later tests positive for coronavirus.

It also provides risk alerts based on a user’s postcode, allow users to scan QR codes to check in at venues on the app and allow people to book tests, if they have symptoms.

The app works by logging the amount of time you spend 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 you don’t know each other. The app will advise you to self-isolate if you 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 and lessons learned have informed the final version that is launching today.

Mrs Maclean said: “We can all play our part in the fight against coronavirus by downloading the NHS Covid-19 app. By downloading this app, you will be protecting yourself and your loved ones.

“Cases remain low in Redditch, and we can keep it that way by following the rules and by downloading this app - an important tool for helping to reduce the spread of the virus.”