Free app which helps people navigate Covid-19 is launched

A new free-to-download app to help people navigate the coronavirus pandemic has been launched for Apple and Android devices.

Designed and made in Bristol, the Coronavirus Support App (UK) has been created by Expert Self Care, alongside a team of volunteers and eight partner organisations, including NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West – an organisation which aims to address the immediate issues facing the health and social care system.

The app is aimed at people in the UK aged 16 and over who would like to learn more about coronavirus and Covid-19. Accurate information can help people to protect themselves, the people close to them and the wider public, and reduce avoidable pressure on the NHS.

It gives users easy and quick access to evidence-informed information about coronavirus and Covid-19 all in one place, even when offline. It also signposts to reliable, trusted sources of information.

Project lead Dr Knut Schroeder, a practising GP and founder of Expert Self Care, said: “In the current coronavirus crisis, reliable information is more important than ever. We designed this app to bring together all the best sources of information to support people during the pandemic and beyond. False information leads to rumours and myths that can hamper public health efforts, which may result in preventable disease and deaths.

“We haven’t received any external funding for this app and it’s available to download for free, so we are grateful to the team of volunteers who have made this app possible. They have been amazing during a very difficult time for everyone.”

The Coronavirus Support app also answers key questions like who is at risk, what the symptoms are and how to stay healthy during lockdown. It also offers advice for a range of situations, including for anyone feeling anxious, at risk of domestic violence and abuse, or in need of medical treatment.

It’s content has been created by a team of volunteers made up of UK health professionals, topic experts and members of the public. Development partners include the Self Care Forum, the Patient Information Forum, the National Institute for Health Research Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West) and Imperial College London.

The app is available to download from the App Store and Google Play.