The local Test and Trace service launches today (November 18).

Wiltshire’s Test and Trace partnership which will support the national system when it is unable to contact someone who has tested positive for Covid-19.

This means if the NHS Test and Trace system is unable to reach someone, the data passes to Wiltshire’s public health team who will make contact. The team will send a text message to the person who has tested positive which is followed up by a phone call.

Director of public health in Wiltshire, Kate Blackburn said: “We’re pleased to be able to now have this enhancement locally to bring that percentage up.”

The public health boss said her team will call from 0300 456 0100 urged anyone who receives a call from the number to answer.

Currently, around 75 per cent of people in the county are contacted by NHS Test and Trace. The chief medical officer has said the figures need to be 80 per cent and over to make a difference.

Director of public health in Wiltshire, Kate Blackburn said: “We’re pleased to be able to now have this enhancement locally to bring that percentage up.

“It will enable us to pass on information and advice, signpost anyone toward the Wellbeing Hub if they need that additional support to be able to self-isolate but also so we can establish any close contacts of positive cases and break that transmission.

“I’m really confident its going to have a positive impact as we continue to do our best to reduce the transmission of Covid-19.”

The service will be manned by 13 members of the public health team, which will be constantly under-review in the event of rising cases and the national system needing to reach more and more people.

Mrs Blackburn reiterated that it is a legal requirement to self-isolate if you have test positive for coronavirus or have been asked to do so by Test and Trace.