A COVID-19 tracing service set up by Hampshire County Council is "playing a vital role in protecting our communities".

The local service has been established to support the NHS test and trace and help stop the spread of the virus.

Local authorities across the UK have been working with NHS Test and Trace to organise Local Tracing Partnerships, which combine national scale and data with local knowledge.

How it works:

  • When the NHS Test & Trace service is unable to reach people who have tested positive (cases) within its usual timeframes, local call handlers will take over.
  • The local call handlers will then attempt to make contact with cases to gather details of their close contacts. This will done via text messaging and a call from a local number 01962 826982.
  • When contact is made, the person will be asked about their movements in the days prior to the start of symptoms, or a positive test, as well as relevant information about close contacts. This information will be shared with the national Test and Trace team who will follow-up the contacts.
  • The local call handlers will also be able to offer advice on local support that is available to self-isolate if required, as well as picking up on any welfare and wellbeing concerns.

Councillor Keith Mans, the leader of Hampshire County Council and chair of the Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said: “Providing residents with access to prompt and convenient testing, and ensuring their close contacts are traced and supported to isolate, is crucial for breaking the chain of infection and preventing further spread of the virus.

"Since December, we have been rolling out our local tracing operation and now have coverage across the entire county, with the percentage of calls being answered successfully above the recommended national target, and information and advice being given on self-isolation and the support available. The Local Tracing Service is therefore playing a vital role in protecting our communities."

“Infection rates are beginning to reduce gradually in Hampshire, but for now we need to keep following the rules to further limit transmission. I’d like to remind all residents to follow self-isolation guidance and book a test if displaying any symptoms. If your test comes back positive, it is really important to answer any calls from NHS Test and Trace and the Local Tracing Service, and to give them as much information as you can about your movements and close contacts," he added.

Coronavirus support

Advice, information and support is available for anyone who has been impacted by coronavirus. Contact the Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline can be contacted on 0333 370 4000.

Those struggling financially to self-isolate, check the Test and Trace support payment guidance on nhs.uk, or contact your district or borough Council to find out if you are eligible for financial help.

 

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