A new Richmond-based contact tracing system for people who have tested positive for coronavirus launches this week.

On average, the national Test and Trace scheme is only able to contact 80 per cent of local cases in Richmond borough.

It is hoped the local scheme which launches on Wednesday (November 4) will help to boost this by stepping in when NHS Test and Trace teams cannot contact new cases within 24 hours.

Specially trained call handlers from Richmond Council will make further attempts to contact patients, including checking local information to clarify and improve data details.

The service will operate six days a week, with calls coming from a local Richmond (0208) number.

If the call-handlers are unable to contact the individual by telephone, they will receive SMS messages or a home visit as a last resort.

Cllr Gareth Roberts is leader of the council. He said: "Speed is of the essence when dealing with Covid-19, so increasing the performance of contact tracing should mean that more cases are contacted, know to self-isolate and help us keep our case numbers down.

"Importantly, by us having direct contact with residents affected, we can offer support and extra help if they or their families need; including promoting the new self-isolation funding that is available for lower paid, working residents on benefits.

"So, I would encourage people who receive a call to not only pick up, but listen and act on the advice given.

"If you are contacted and instructed to self-isolate you must do so. Failure to comply would be a breach of the law and you could be fined."

The council has also announced that it has received £75,000 from the government this week to recruit marshals to support people in town centres to adhere to Covid-19 rules.

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