The Test and Trace system has cost an immense amount of money, and let’s face it, the pandemic isn’t going to last forever. Rather than disposing of the system, I believe it could be repurposed for another big challenge, that whilst not directly linked to the pandemic, has been brought to light during this time – safety of women and the deeply shocking murder of Sarah Everard.
By using QR codes, women could check into places, creating a digital trail of their whereabouts. With enough women checking in, inadvertently the trace system would be created should the worst happen.
It could be modified to include a notification to your nominated person should you feel in danger and contain your last known location.
As other safety actions are considered, such as adding more street lighting, additional QR codes could be added to landmarks, parks, bridges, street names etc.
Also, the system could be modified to include a comment/rating system for women to rate places they visit based on their experience safety wise on the back of staff and clientele. In that way, it could work as a map of safe places/routes for women.
As not to infringe on any liberties, like track and trace, participation would be voluntary and whilst I mention women, it could be used by all. It’s not just women who feel insecure in public spaces and its not just the attacks/assaults that could be made easier to account for but also robbery, theft etc.
I believe this could address the following: 1. Modify track and trace to avoid it’s inevitable systematic redundancy 2. Create a sense of security for women/vulnerable individuals and 3. Should the worst happen, assist in police investigations.
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