GET TESTED AT NEW CORONAVIRUS LOCAL TESTING SITE IN CROYDON

A walk-through coronavirus testing facility has opened at Central Parade Car Park, New Addington, in Croydon, as part of the Government’s UK-wide drive to improve the accessibility of coronavirus testing for communities.

Testing is only available for those either with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense or taste – or those who have been asked to get tested by a doctor, public health professional or by their local council. Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. You can expect your result the next day.

The site is easily accessible without a car. Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout (including travelling to and from the testing centre).

Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through testing will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely.

Testing at the new site starts on (Wednesday 16 September), with more appointments available each day. Testing is available for everyone, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

The site is part of the largest network of diagnostic testing facilities created in British history, including 75 drive-through sites, 90 walk-through sites, 236 mobile units, home testing and satellite kits and three mega laboratories.

Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts. This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, advising them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus. They will be advised to also book at a test if they develop symptoms.