Rapid result coronavirus testing continues across Stoke-on-Trent as residents are urged to get tested

More rapid result coronavirus testing is being offered to residents in Stoke-on-Trent. The faster testing, using the new lateral flow technology, will take place next week Monday to Friday (30 Novembe

People who book a coronavirus test at Dimensions Leisure Centre in Tunstall and the Wallace Sports and Education Centre in Abbey Hulton will be tested using the new technology which gives results in just over 20 minutes, without the need to go to a lab to be processed.

Although cases are still widespread across the city, places where there are higher levels of community transmission include Hanley, Shelton, Etruria, Moorcroft, Oakhill and Boothen. Residents in these areas should consider booking a test.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader Abi Brown said: “Testing is vital in our defence against coronavirus. Bringing tests to local people is helping people to isolate more quickly if they have it, and stopping the spread. Over the coming weeks will be moving lateral flow testing to further locations across the city to target areas with high infection rates. 

“The tiers will be reviewed again by government on December 16 and I am writing to Secretary of State Matt Hancock to urge him to consider us for review. We have two weeks to continue to drive down case numbers; I want to do all we possibly can to get the city out of tier three at the earliest possible opportunity. Please book a test to protect not only yourself, but to protect your family and friends.”
Dr Paul Edmondson-Jones, director of adult social care, health integration and wellbeing, said: “We are urging residents to get a test even if they are only showing the mildest of symptoms, especially in those areas with higher levels of community transmission. Stoke-on-Trent now has a seven-day infection rate of 402.5 per 100,000 people in the week to 23 November. Our cases are decreasing and we are making good steady progress, however now is not the time to become complacent. Although the infection rate is beginning to come down, it is not happening quickly enough.”

“Some people who test positive tell us they waited to get tested as they didn’t have 'classic' Covid symptoms but did feel quite unwell. We need these people to get tested earlier.”

For the latest information on council services and support during the coronavirus, and frequently asked questions, please visit www.stoke.gov.uk/coronavirus. For latest health advice on the coronavirus, please visit www.nhs.uk/coronavirus, and for further information on the virus visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

All residents are reminded about the critical importance of regular handwashing with soap and hot water for 20 seconds. The significance of this action cannot be underestimated. If residents have symptoms, please get tested. All residents must continue to follow the guidance of wash hands, cover face and make space.

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Notes to Editor

Lateral flow testing next week for residents in Stoke-on-Trent is as follows:

• Monday 30 November- Dimensions Leisure Centre, 9:30am to 2pm.
• Tuesday 1 December- Dimensions Leisure Centre, 9:30am to 2pm.
• Wednesday 2 December - Dimensions Leisure Centre, 9:30am to 2pm.
• Thursday 3 December - Wallace Sports and Education Centre, 9:30am to 2pm.
• Friday 4 December - Wallace Sports and Education Centre, 9:30am to 2pm.

162 tests will be made available at the leisure centres between 9:30am and 2pm with five-minute appointments and people attending will be asked to isolate either in their own cars or in a designated area at a social distance at the site to receive their results. If results are positive then individuals will be asked to return for a further test and receive additional support and advice. Should they be negative, they can continue about their normal day-to-day business.

Residents can book an appointment by visiting www.stoke.gov.uk/bookacovid19test.