Lateral flow testing
England
The UK Government has announced that lateral flow testing is now available to everyone in England. Therefore members in England can get tested twice a week if they wish. Tests are free of charge and you will receive your result within 30 minutes.
Lateral flow device (LFD) testing is a fast and simple way to test people who do not have symptoms of COVID-19, but who may still be spreading the virus.
Testing is optional, but it may give you and your patients reassurance that it is safe to seek podiatry care if you are tested on a regular basis.
To find your nearest test centre, visit Find a rapid lateral flow test site in your area on GOV.UK and enter your postcode. Alternatively, you can find a local pharmacy where you can collect rapid lateral flow tests to do at home.
Scotland
The First Minister announced on 20 April 2021 that all residents of Scotland will be eligible for free lateral flow testing from 26 April 2021. This will be offered to those who cannot obtain it through their workplace, school or university. Visit gov.scot Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested in Scotland to find out more. This page is scheduled to be updated by the Scottish Government on 26 April with the new information.
Northern Ireland
On 16 April 2021 the Public Health Agency (PHA) announced that private healthcare workers would be able to access regular lateral flow testing. The Northern Ireland branch of the College contacted all local members with details of how to apply for the scheme. Registration for the scheme closed on 21 April 2021.
Wales
Rapid lateral flow testing is available now for people living in Wales who cannot work from home. Details on how to order these can be found on gov.wales: Get rapid lateral flow COVID-19 tests if you do not have symptoms.
Surge testing
In some areas of the UK the Government is asking the public to undertake surge testing. If you are contacted we would strongly recommend that you participate to keep yourself and your patients safe.
Surge testing is increased testing (including door-to-door) of people who do not have symptoms of coronavirus, usually to assist in detecting new variants which may be more contagious than the original virus.
For more information and to see where surge testing is currently occurring, visit GOV.UK, Surge testing for new coronavirus (COVID-19) variants.