BUSINESSES across East Renfrewshire can now use a free app to help them play their part in the battle against coronavirus.

The new ‘Check and Protect’ data-collection app allows local traders to securely check-in their customers and collect information in line with official guidelines to support the Scottish Government and the NHS Test and Protect programme.

It has been launched by East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, supported by East Renfrewshire Council.

Each registered business is provided with a QR (Quick Response) code and four-digit venue code. Visitors can then scan the code to record their time spent in the venue, providing vital information to be shared with NHS Scotland Test and Protect in the event of a Track and Trace request.

Businesses can also manually check-in guests who do not have a smartphone.

Those who sign up gain access to a web-based dashboard that allows them to check the number of log-ins and download a support package that includes posters and flyers.

Visitor data automatically expires after 21 days and will be held by East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce using a secure database – giving customers confidence that their details are safe and individual businesses do not need to worry about data protection.

The launch of the app is part of a wider range of new services from East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce to support the area’s business community.

Other services include free HR, health and safety and legal advice for all members.
Laura Molloy, president of East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce, told the Barrhead News: “The launch of Check and Protect is for businesses and their customers to easily and quickly capture data required by the Scottish Government in the event of a Track and Trace request.

“This is a crucial element in ensuring people have confidence to visit businesses and prevents additional complexities as we try to recover from the impact of Covid-19.

“It is free to sign up and this is available to every business in East Renfrewshire. It is designed to help businesses across the region reopen and operate as safely as possible.

“The app is part of our newly-developed service offering to help businesses in the area start trading with confidence through a programme of support that helps both the bottom line and encourages business-to-business collaboration.”

A recent survey of Chamber members showed that around 40 per cent were concerned about lack of customer demand and rising business costs.

Ms Molloy added: “By offering this app as a free solution which is easy to set up and manage, we hope to increase confidence levels and trade while keeping costs as low as possible.”

The Chamber and local partners such as the Business Improvement Districts, Business Gateway and East Renfrewshire Council continue to offer the local business community free posters and social distancing floor mats, risk assessment tools, hand sanitisers and disposable masks.

For more information about the Check and Protect app and other support services, visit protect.eastrenchamber.org.uk or search for #ProtectEastRenfrewshire on social media.