Testing centres are helping

We test for coronavirus so people get the treatment they need, and don’t infect anyone else.

That’s why, last week, we dramatically extended testing in England to all essential workersandmembersoftheir household if they have symptoms.

We further extended testing to all asymptomatic NHS and social care staff and care home residents, and to anyone who is symptomatic and over 65 or going out to work, as well as symptomatic members of their households.

If you, or a member of your household, are in one of these groups and are experiencing symptoms it is crucial you are tested as soon as possible.

You can do so by booking an appointment at your local dedicated test site.

A network of 43 centres, open seven days a week, has been set up across the country, including one at Peterborough Showground (pictured).

Nearly 125,000 people have already taken up our offer to get tested, either by using our new online booking portal atwww.gov.uk/guidance/ coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested#arrange-a-test to make an appointment or have booked a home test.

Booking is easy. Once you’ve entered your details on the portal, you’ll get a text or email inviting you to book an appointment.

Tests on site are conducted in a drive-through style, with swabs taken through the car window. At some sites you will have the option to administer the test yourself. Every care is taken to ensure the highest levels of safety and hygiene.

After you’ve had your test, results will be sent out by text

within a few days and a helpline will be available to deal with queries. People who can’t go online can still apply through their employer.

The test result identifies whether or not you currently have the virus, meaning those who test negative can return to work and those who test positive can take appropriate measures to recover and prevent further spread of the virus.

While our guidance is that anyone experiencing symptoms must stay at home for 7 days, it is right that if you are symptomatic and an essential worker, a worker who is unable to work from home, or over 65, you are able to leave your home to attend a testing centre.

If you’re unable to get to a testing site, you can order a home testing kit through gov.uk. We will be increasing availability over the coming weeks, so if you have not been successful in obtaining one, please keep trying.

I have been chuffed with the response from businesses who have worked with us to help make this vision a reality

and am extremely grateful to everyone who has contributed to this national effort.

Guidance on coronavirus testing for essential workers, and members of their households, who are self-isolating: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19getting-tested#arrange-a-test

Lord Bethell

Health Minister