Wiltshire's own test and trace system now live

The scheme will step in to help if the NHS Test and Trace service has been unable to reach a person in Wiltshire who has tested positive for Covid-19.

Wiltshire Council Director of Public Health, Kate Blackburn says it's needed.

"At the moment, about 75 per cent of people get followed up by the national system in Wiltshire. The Chief Medical Officer has always said that really it needs to be 80 per cent and over to make a real difference so we're really pleased to be able to now have this enhancement locally to be able to bring that percentage up."

HOW WILL IT WORK?

National contract tracers will pass on the relevant details to Wiltshire Council who will then try to make contact.

A text message will be send first and this will then be followed up with phone calls.

The number Wiltshire Council will be using is 0300 456 0100.

Anyone who gets a call from this number is urged not to ignore it and people are also being urged to save the number in their phone's contact list so they know immediately who is trying to reach them.

Wiltshire Council Director of Public Health, Kate Blackburn, said:

"If our local team tries to make contact we urge everyone to answer the call. Our aim is to slow the spread of the virus and break the chain of infection. With everyone's support we can get through this pandemic as quickly as possible, and that means people playing their part by following the guidance and self-isolating when they are required to."

As well as providing advice and information the team of thirteen public health staff will try to establish any close contacts of the positive cases to ensure they also self isolate.

It's a legal requirement for people to self isolate when they receive a positive Covid -19 test result.

Failing to self isolate can result in a fine of up to £10,000.