Google has introduced a filter to highlight where healthcare and other key workers can find hotels providing “COVID-19 responder rooms.”
Using Google search or maps, frontline staff can either use the search term “hotels for essential works in …” or “hotels in…” and narrow results via the “COVID-19 responder rooms.” filter.
The initiative is currently focused on the U.K. and U.S. but the search giant is hoping to roll out the tool on a worldwide scale.
Google is also working with the American Hotel & Lodging Association to widen efforts to supply rooms to key workers.
The AHLA launched its Hospitality for Hope initiative two months ago to match those needing accommodation with hotels, with more than 17,000 offering rooms.
Now, in partnership with Google, hoteliers can add details of the room provision to their business profile so that it can be seen by those in need.
Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA, says: “By working together with Google we will be able to help countless more first responders find respite at local hotels.
"Thanks to Google’s innovative tool we are thrilled to make it easier for first responders to find a hotel quickly and stress-free so that they can focus on more urgent needs.”