Due to the current pandemic and the risk factors relating to COVID-19, Dopplle wants to help to keep you and the rest of the world safe during these times.
COVID-19
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How has Dopplle been affected by COVID-19?
Before COVID-19 became an issue in the UK, Dopplle had many Swap Shop events planned at universities and schools. We decided it was in our best interest, and our customers, to cancel all the events. We also returned the clothes to our customers as we had no idea when it would be safe to start running Swap Shops again.
Dopplle stopped working in an office before the lockdown was put in place as we felt it was safer for our employees. Since lockdown has started, we have all been working from home and constantly contacting via emails, daily Skype calls and the occasional Zoom call. Even though we had to cancel all of our upcoming events, we had fewer distractions and could focus on developing and refining our app. Over lockdown, our biggest success has been creating an app that is now available to download from the App Store and Google Play Store!
Now, things are a little better; Dopplle has adopted the hybrid approach. We go into the office a few times a week and work from home the rest of the time.
How long do I have to wait until the virus is not active on items of clothing?
We suggest leaving the clothes for 24 to 48 hours before handling them. It is suggested that the virus lives on clothes between several hours to a day. We recommend leaving your clothes for that length of time or carefully washing them before they come in contact with the rest of your home or yourself and others around you.
How are you keeping your customers and students safe when they are using the Dopplle app?
Dopplle has adapted the app to make sure we keep all users as safe as possible by helping them in every step of their Dopplle journey through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dopplle have implemented Dopplle Collection Points, which will reduce contact and help users stay safe. Here, users can reduce their contact with other community members by dropping an item off at the Dopplle Collection Point. The other user safely collects the item from there when they feel comfortable.
We have implemented a timer within the app, which starts when an item is photographed in a “package”. This timer is available to view by the owner of the item but also the buyer. This means the buyer can handle the package safely and check the timer to see how long the item has been securely packaged. Once they are comfortable with the amount of time that has passed, they can open it to know how long it has been sealed inside.
Finally, within the app, we have added a reminder bar with some advice about COVID-19 safety to gently but consistently remind users to adhere to Guidelines and social distancing measures.
How are the actual transactions/swapping of the clothes going to take place?
Currently, there are three types of trades you can complete within the app. Each one has different benefits to keep safe while swapping.
Pick up in Person – this is a location decided mutually by the owner and the recipient to be most convenient for both of them.
Dopplle Collection Point – this is a location that has been previously set by Dopplle HQ and Dopplle Ambassadors in a secure location that is accessible for everyone.
My Address – this option allows buyers to get the item delivered to an address of their choice. This allows the two users involved to have a non-contact delivery as the owner can post the item through their letterbox without contacting the recipient directly.
Will you still be able to run Swap Shops?
Yes! Swap Shops are fully dependent on the pandemic situation, but we have some booked, which we are excited about.
Can I try on clothes before taking them home with me?
ASome events may provide the option to let you try items on before deciding to swap. If you are unsure, please ask.
Do customers have to wear a face mask during a Swap Shop?
We highly recommend that customers use a facemask throughout the Swap Shop event when they start back up again. This is because there will be a range of students/staff/general public attending the event from a variety of different households, so please respect everyone’s health and safety by wearing a mask.
For further information please check the government website.
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus