Coronavirus: More key workers now able to access rapid COVID-19 testing

Shrewsbury’s rapid testing centre is now open seven days a week – meaning more frontline and key workers in the county will now be able to get the speedy COVID-19 test.

The testing centre, which is located at The Lantern in Harlescott, is now open from 8am until 8pm, seven days a week.

Although we are in lockdown, there will be people who can’t work from home. Those individuals, who do not have symptoms, are encouraged to have Lateral Flow Rapid tests up to two times per week (or once every four days).

Since Shropshire’s rapid test offer was launched in December 2020, over 2,000 tests have been carried out.

We know that up to one in three people who have coronavirus never show any symptoms, but that does not mean they are not infectious. Lateral flow (rapid) devices (LFDs) are one of the tools being used to help us to detect and fight COVID-19. The speedy tests can rapidly turn around results within an hour without the need for processing the swabs in a lab.

Slots are available for frontline workers at the following sites:

The Lantern, Meadow Farm Drive, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, SY1 4NG

Every day  – 8am-8pm

Craven Arms Community Centre, Newington Way, Craven Arms, Shropshire, SY7 9PS

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9.15am -4pm, and Sundays 9.30am – 12.30pm

All tests must be booked in advance using the below link:

www.shropshire.gov.uk/lfdpublictesting/

This in addition to the symptomatic testing, that is already available for those displaying COVID-19 symptoms at venues across the county. If you have symptoms, book a test by calling 119 or online www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said:

“Unfortunately, like many areas across the country, Shropshire’s current rates of infection are still worryingly high.

“Community testing has a big role to play in driving infection rates down, but it only works as part of a whole suite of measures including effective contact tracing, following the guidance around socialising and self-isolation and the rollout of the vaccines.

“Getting tested doesn’t mean people can stop social distancing, wearing face coverings or washing their hands, but it does help to make the activities they are undertaking safer.

“People who come to be tested will be given one of the rapid lateral flow tests which give results in about 30 minutes. 

“By getting tested, you are doing the right thing and ultimately helping people to stay well, businesses to stay open, children to stay in school and hospitals to have the capacity to treat other illness.”

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said

“I know and appreciate the efforts everyone is making to be responsible and to try and prevent the spread of the virus. But it is now more important than ever for us all to follow the national guidance to keep the rates down, and our loved ones safe.

“These rapid tests will help our frontline workers to get tested and be sure that at that particular moment they are COVID-19 free. Those testing positive can take immediate action and self-isolate – reducing the impact on the wider community.”

How to book a test if you DO NOT have any COVID-19 symptoms and live in Shropshire

• If you have access to the internet, go to www.shropshire.gov.uk/lfdpublictesting

If you DO have COVID-19 symptoms:

Currently anyone who has one of the main symptoms of a high temperature, new cough or loss of taste or smell must self-isolate immediately and book a test.

When you book a test you will be given the option of a test centre based on nearest location to you and availability. If you are displaying symptoms, apply for a test online.

Step Up and help us stop the spread of coronavirus:

• Stay At Home
• Work from home, if you can
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms
• Wear a face covering in indoor settings (food shops, workplaces) where social distancing may be more difficult, and where you may come close to people who are not part of your household or bubble.
• Anyone who has any symptoms should book a test and not leave home for at least 10 days. Those living in households should self-isolate for 10 days if they or any members of the household receive a positive test.

For local advice and support during the pandemic (especially if you are self-isolating), call Shropshire Council’s COVID-19 Helpline on 0345 678 9028 (lines open on the weekend on Saturday from 9am-4pm and Sunday 9am-12pm) or visit our website at www.shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.