Go with the flow to Glasgow

Some people in South Lanarkshire looking to test themselves for coronavirus are being told to go into Glasgow to be checked out.

Residents in Rutherglen contacted the Reformer after being advised the nearest places to secure the tests were Glasgow Green and in the city’s Crossmyloof area, several miles away.

Local pharmacies no longer have any testing kits for the virus in stock, meaning NHS Lanarkshire was advising residents to order them online or visit a testing site where they are stocked.

However, for Rutherglen and Cambuslang, which fall under Lanarkshire, locals are now advised that their nearest locations include Cranhill Community Centre, Easterhouse Social Work Office and Crossmyloof Resource Centre, as well as the Red Deer Centre in East Kilbride.

One woman who was looking to get a box of LFDs for testing purposes told us: “They say testing is to end on April 18 but it’s already ended as you can’t get any kits without travelling all over the place. Local pharmacies have signs up saying they have none in stock.

“I’ve called the 119 helpline about it, and was simply told there were no slots available and to call back tomorrow.

“What are we supposed to do if we’re meeting someone vulnerable or going into a hospital?”

And she added: “Surely they could have some available at a local location like the community centre in Fernhill, or is Rutherglen being ignored?”

Health board staff say people can call their helpline or order them online.

Alison Palmer-Smith, consultant in public health, said: “People can still access test kits from test sites by calling 119 or ordering online at www.nhsinform.scot/testing and entering your postcode or town to identify the nearest test site.

“Unfortunately, you can no longer access LFD at local pharmacies as the scheme, coordinated by the Scottish Government, closed at the end of last week.”