New NHS COVID-19 app

The NHS COVID-19 app is part of our large scale coronavirus (COVID-19) testing and contact tracing programme. The app has been launched to help notify users if they have come into contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19. Downloading the app is the simplest way to help protect those we love.

The app allows people to report symptoms, order a coronavirus test, check in to venues by scanning a QR code and it helps the NHS trace individuals that have coronavirus.

The app does this while protecting the user’s anonymity. Nobody, including the government, will know who or where a particular user is.

Every person who downloads the app will be helping in the fight against coronavirus (COVID-19).

Download the app or find out more, including frequently asked questions, at covid19.nhs.uk

Download the app

Direct link to app on Apple App Store

Direct link to app on Google Play

Benefits

The app helps trace app users who have spent time near other app users, who they may not personally know, and who later test positive for coronavirus.
The “Check-in” feature supports this functionality by anonymously alerting users who have been at the same venue at the same time.
App contact tracing reduces the time it takes to alert those who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.
The app will help the NHS understand where and how quickly the virus is spreading, so it can respond.

Further information

NHS Test and Trace have produced an introduction to the NHS COVID-19 app which provides further information on why the app is important, how it works, how privacy is protected and other common questions.

You can also read an article from Healthwatch England in August about the app data privacy and an article from the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) about the data protection considerations