Click and collect Covid-19 tests for every child in city as schools reopen
With secondary school pupils asked to have three tests in school and one at home during the first fortnight, Hayley Parker reveals how parents are being urged to pick up a lateral flow kit
CLICK and collect coronavirus tests are now available for parents ahead of Stoke-ontrent’s schools reopening.
Mums and dads can pick up lateral flow kits for their children to use at home before they return to the classroom on Monday.
It comes as secondary school pupils are being asked to undergo three Covid-19 tests in school and one at home during the first fortnight of the return to classrooms.
After that, they will be expected to test themselves at home twice a week.
If they test positive, they will need to undergo a PCR test to confirm the result and will have to selfisolate.
Dr Paul Edmondson-jones – Stokeon-trent’s top health boss – said: “It is vitally important, especially as schools reopen, that people are getting tested regularly.
“I encourage families to get a test at one of our community venues for peace of mind, and to make sure your child has not been in contact with anybody who has the virus.
“I know some parents will be feeling anxious about their children returning to school or college, and this is one way to combat this.”
Click and collect tests are available from regional testing sites at the bet365 Stadium, Port Vale/ Synectics Solutions and Fenton Manor.
It means these three main centres will now only offer PCR tests for those with symptoms between 7am and 1pm.
After that, it will be click and collect only.
They are available for households of schoolchildren, members of support bubbles, childcare, and those in related occupations such as bus drivers.
Alternatively, anyone who cannot travel can order a Direct to Home testing kit where they are delivered to your door.
Community test sites also remain open for everyone.
People can order a home test kit at www.gov.uk/order-coronavirusrapid-lateral-flow-tests.
■ People without coronavirus symptoms can book a test at a community venue by visiting www. stoke.gov.uk/bookacovid19test. Anyone with coronavirus symptoms can book a test at a regional testing centre by visiting via www.nhs.uk/ coronavirus, or calling 119.