GLASGOW's courts are introducing a new contact tracing app allowing them to stay open safely even during lockdown.

Rather than using pen and paper to record users’ details – which carries potential data and sanitisation risks - courts are using SAFE2GO, a secure QR-based platform used similarly in restaurants and venues across the city.

The idea was thought-up by Glasgow-based Hamill Digital Healthcare in July, with the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service (SCTS) now utilising the tool within all their courts across Scotland.

Richard Maconachie, SCTS Chief Finance Officer, said: “The SAFE2GO process is simple to use and convenient for regular visitors.

"Take up so far has been encouraging, so we feel well placed to support public health services in minimising transmission of COVID-19 through Test and Protect.”  

Glasgow Times:

 

Now, whenever someone enters the court building, their contact details are recorded and shared with Test and Protect when requested by NHS contact tracers  - otherwsie the data is destroyed after 21 days.

SCTS were given additional funding by the Scottish Government to handle a growing backlog of trials waiting to proceed following lockdown, with SAFE2GO one of the measures implemented.

Founder Louise Hamill, a former NHS doctor, said: “Our secure GDPR compliant platform helps to make contact tracing as safe and simple as possible.

"It’s a solution for anyone opening their venue to make sure they are protecting users’ data while supporting Test and Protect. 

“We are pleased to be able to offer our contact tracing solution to the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Services to make sure they can safely resume as many services as possible and help to tackle delays in the criminal justice system during these unprecedented times.”

More details can be found on the SAFE2GO website here.