Food delivery app Deliveroo has announced it will be launching a “no-contact drop-off service” as the UK enters the “delay” phase of its response to the coronavirus outbreak.

In an email to all customers sent on Friday 13 March, the takeaway service explained that “in light of the uncertainty we all face in our daily lives with the outbreak of COVID-19”, they will be taking new steps to ensure the continued safety of customers, riders and restaurants.

The email, sent on behalf of Deliveroo founder Will Shu, explained that the company would be providing restaurants with additional packaging and seals for orders and that they will also commence a “no-contact service”.

The new option will enable customers to request that their order be left on their doorstep, “removing the need for direct contact for both parties”, Deliveroo explains.

Shu also announced that in addition to their usual takeaways, customers will now be able to order other kitchen and household products, should they require them when they are self-isolating.

Addressing concerns about the welfare of employees working on zero-hour contracts during the pandemic, Deliveroo explained that “riders who are diagnosed with Coronavirus and find that they are unable to work during this period are eligible for financial support”.

“Throughout this time, we’ll be relentlessly focussed on doing everything we can to support the restaurants and riders working with us, and to bring you safe deliveries from the best restaurants across the country,” wrote Shu.

Deliveroo has its headquarters in London and currently operates in over 200 cities across 12 countries worldwide and employs 30,000 drivers.

When contacted by The Independent, delivery service Just Eat confirmed they are "introducing contactless delivery" in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Takeaway app Uber Eats also confirmed to The Independent that customers can continue to request their orders be left on their doorsteps and said they are looking into "new product features to make this process even smoother, which we hope will be helpful to everyone on the platform in the coming weeks.”

According to the World Health Organisation's latest situation report, there are currently over 125,000 recorded cases of coronavirus worldwide and 4,600 people have died from the disease.

Public Health England and the World Health Organisation recommend that members of the public wash their hands regularly, cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and avoid close contact with anyone who appears unwell, to reduce spread of the disease.

The Independent has contacted Deliveroo for further comment.

Read More