New statistics released by Google show Borderers to be observing government advice in light of the coronavirus outbreak.
People have been asked to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. However, you can still leave your home for essential work, to buy supplies, to exercise or to care for a vulnerable person.
It shows an 84% decrease in footfall at ‘Retail & Recreation’ locations in the Borders which includes restaurants, cafes and museums which people are being told to avoid. This is better than the UK figure which has seen an 82% decrease.
There has also been an almost 50% reduction in people attending workplaces, and a 20% increase in time spent at home. This shows that people are following the advice to work from home if possible. Many workers have also been furloughed after the UK Government agreed to pay 80% of employee wages which will mean more people staying at home.
Other data shows a 42% decrease in footfall at supermarkets and pharmacies, a 26% decrease at parks and beaches, and a 34% decrease at public transport hubs such as bus and train stations.
The statistics are calculated by using location history on people’s devices and only where they have given consent.
Borders MP, John Lamont, has welcomed the data and praised Borderers for sticking to government advice.
John Lamont MP commented: “These figures from Google show significant decreases in footfall at public places right across the board. This is very welcome news and shows that Borderers are playing their part in saving lives and protecting our NHS.
“The figures also show the Borders to be pretty much in line with the rest of the UK in terms of the reduction in mobility. The only way in which we can overcome this horrendous virus is by following government advice to the letter, no matter where you live.
“People must work from home if they can and only go out if necessary. This includes going for food and medicine supplies as infrequently as possible, for exercise once per day, or if you look after a vulnerable person.
“This is not easy. However, we can and will get through this. I want to thank everyone who is playing their part in the national effort to save lives.”
