States seek evidence from island residents

Thursday 02 April 2020

Public Health is encouraging Guernsey residents to take part in a daily online survey over the next couple of weeks, so the team can get a better idea of what the community situation is like.

Everyone who signs up for the Community Monitoring Tool will be sent an email each day, asking questions about how they are feeling, whether they are social distancing, self isolating or shielding, and whether they are still able to work.

It will also ask if the resident is in need of any more information from the States - about financial support, for example.

"There's something we can all do to help our Public Health colleagues and the wider community and it's really easy," said President of Health & Social Care, Deputy Heidi Soulsby. "We've spoken a lot over the past few weeks about the importance of evidence. Evidence is what is determining the decisions we make. Now, it's your opportunity to help us gather more evidence, which will be so valuable over the coming days and weeks.

Pictured: States of Guernsey Chief Executive, Paul Whitfield.

"It's something really quick and simple that will help us in making the right decisions in the future. It's another example of 'Guernsey together'."

 The survey is voluntary and respondents will be able to unsubscribe from the emails if they no longer want to partake.

"The app has been built using existing technology and a trusted IT partner to ensure your personal information provided is appropriately safeguarded," said Chief Executive of the States, Paul Whitfield. "But, it will provide us with an essential source of information very quickly. This will really help to support Nikki [Director of Public Health], her team and all the services that are trying to assist the community in this ongoing situation."

The Community Monitoring Tool is available on the gov.gg/coronavirus site and can be completed by all island residents, regardless of their situation and whether they have symptoms or not.