Local contact tracing programme launches in Derby

Published: 23 November 2020

A COVID-19 contact tracing system is to be implemented at a local level across Derby to support NHS Test and Trace.

In partnership with the national Test and Trace operation, the programme will see Derby City Council support in contacting those who have tested positive for COVID-19 but have not responded to contact by the NHS system. It will also work to respond to and identify local outbreaks of infection.

A pilot of local contact tracing has been running in a number of areas of the country since September and is now to be rolled out nationally.

If the national Test and Trace system has been unable to contact a COVID-19 positive Derby citizen following attempts via SMS and phone calls, their details will be passed through to the city’s local service.

The Council’s team will then make quick contact with the person who has tested positive and provide them with information and guidance to support with self-isolation.

The system will also work closely with Derby’s Community Hub to ensure that those who may be more vulnerable or need extra support during this time have access to help.

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

The national Test and Trace system is extremely important in the national strategy to regain control over COVID-19 transmission. Using local knowledge, we are hoping to support this as best we can to ensure that those who should self-isolate are provided with guidance and do not potentially infect others.

We will also be able to offer coordinated support for those who may struggle during the self-isolation period financially, or because they need someone to collect food or medicine.

As ever, we should all try our best to do the right thing for Derby by ensuring that we follow advice given on self-isolation and if we are symptomatic, stay in our homes and apply for a test.

The local contact tracing team will contact cases from the number 01332 956800. If you receive a call from this number, please respond and answer any questions as fully as possible. If you're deaf or hard of hearing, you can text us on 07774 333412 and we can use our deaf interpretations service or email to communicate with you.

If you are required to self-isolate and may struggle financially due to not being able to work, you may be eligible for a grant to help you through the period.

You can also find out more about Derby's Community Hub online or by contacting 01332 640000. A text service is also available using 07774 333412.

More information about the national Test and Trace system can be found on the Government website.

Health