As NHS trials new contact tracing app, new report by @AdaLovelaceInst & @traversepeople finds the public want to see evidence it works alongside independent oversight.
#COVID19Tech #ContactTracing
adalovelaceinstitute.org/our-work/covid…
#COVID19Tech #ContactTracing
adalovelaceinstitute.org/our-work/covid…
Over three weeks in May 2020, the @AdaLovelaceInst, @traversepeople, @involveUK & @BangtheTable convened a rapid online discussion with 28 members of the public to explore attitudes to the use of #COVID19 related technologies for transitioning out of lockdown.
The 'mini public' debated circumstances under which the use of tech like the contact tracing app would be an appropriate part of the #COVID19 response.
Four major findings emerged 👇
Four major findings emerged 👇
1⃣ The public want to see a transparent evidence base about whether contact tracing apps are effective, and under what conditions.
In the previous iteration of the contact tracing app, a lack of transparency generated suspicion and distrust.
In the previous iteration of the contact tracing app, a lack of transparency generated suspicion and distrust.
2⃣ Independent assessment and review of the contact tracing app would increase public confidence in it.
Public trust in decision-makers can be fragile but can be strengthened with the inclusion of independent reviewers & assessors to shape the development of the tech.
Public trust in decision-makers can be fragile but can be strengthened with the inclusion of independent reviewers & assessors to shape the development of the tech.
3⃣ The boundaries of data use, rights and responsibilities need to be clarified.
People are not averse to sharing their data with public health authorities, but do want clarity about how, when, how long and by whom their data will be collected and used.
People are not averse to sharing their data with public health authorities, but do want clarity about how, when, how long and by whom their data will be collected and used.
4⃣No one should be left behind.
Public health tech must enable equal access and distribution of benefits; protect against the surveillance, or profiling of, different demographic groups; and ensure that new tools like immunity certificates do not become a gateway to privileges.
Public health tech must enable equal access and distribution of benefits; protect against the surveillance, or profiling of, different demographic groups; and ensure that new tools like immunity certificates do not become a gateway to privileges.
We publish this report at a critical juncture for the NHS contact tracing app project.
Having already had one false start, it’s important the next phase is done carefully and thoughtfully, listening to the public and building trust in the public health strategy.
Having already had one false start, it’s important the next phase is done carefully and thoughtfully, listening to the public and building trust in the public health strategy.
