Everyone over the age of 18 can now access twice-weekly rapid testing as part of the national efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
This testing is supplied by NHS Test and Trace and is strictly for people who have no symptoms of COVID-19.
With 1 in 3 people with coronavirus showing no symptoms and potentially spreading the virus without knowing, rapid testing helps to identify positive cases quickly, preventing the spread of infection.
To make the testing as worthwhile as possible, we need people to take a test twice a week. A one-off test will offer little benefit as it can only provide information about likelihood of being infectious at that point in time.
Testing can be completed in the following ways:
- Community testing: You can take a supervised test at rapid testing sites locally.
- Workplace testing: Lots of employers are offering testing in the workplace. This includes testing sites, where you can take a supervised test, and workplace collect, where you can pick up a box of tests to use at home. If your employer offers workplace testing, this is still the best route for you to access rapid tests.
- Tests to complete at home: You can collect these from the PCR tes he PCR testing sites, the rapid testing sites and pharmacies that have signed up to offer Pharmacy Collect. Find your nearest site ting sites, the rapid testing sites and pharmacies that have signed up to offer Pharmacy Collect. Find your nearest site. Please use the filters when you access the link to find locations where you can collect tests to complete at home.
- Education: Secondary and college students are already being given tests to use at home twice a week.
- LFD Direct: For people who can’t access tests through the other routes, you can order a box of tests online or by calling 119, which will be delivered to your home.
Watch the step-by-step video guide to COVID-19 self-testing on YouTube
Rapid COVID-19 home testing kits
Home testing kits can be collected from a number of sites across Peterborough, with more locations regularly joining the list.
- Find out where you can collect home test kits
- Or, if you are unable to collect, you can order online to be delivered to your home
- Or by calling 119
Find out more about how to take the test below.
The lateral flow tests are not completely accurate at detecting positive cases and sometimes will return a negative test when someone is in fact positive. That is why it is vital that people continue to follow the national guidance and act like they have COVID-19 at all times.
Information on Lateral Flow Tests provided by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) can be found online.
Further information about Lateral Flow Tests is available on the GOV.UK website.
Book a test at a rapid testing site
Tests can also be completed at rapid testing sites in Peterborough.
You can book an appointment in advance, or just turn up during the hours the site is open.
Please do not make an appointment for this test if you have any symptoms (a new, continuous cough, high temperature or change in your sense of smell/taste).
Results are often provided within an hour (but can take up to 24 hours).
Tests are being offered at:
- St Mark’s Church, Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE1 2SN
- St Andrew's Church, Ledbury Road, Netherton, Peterborough, PE3 9RF
Find your nearest rapid test centre in Peterborough.
Testing sites are open Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm.
The sites have been carefully designed with clinical protocols in place and using purpose-built booths, so that social distancing and strict cleaning processes can be adhered to.
During busy periods, you may need to wait outside, so please wear a coat or something warm.
Normally, the testing process takes approximately 15 minutes - this will include the registration process and taking the swab test.
When you arrive, you will be met by a member of staff who will provide you with information on how to register your test on the NHS website. You will then be provided with a unique barcode to finalise this registration process.
Once registration is complete, you will be directed to a testing booth where you will be able to complete the swab. Testing assistants will be available to answer any questions you have and support you through the process. As part of the swab process, you will be required to blow your nose, so bring some tissues with you if you have any. Once you have completed the test, you can leave, as your results will be sent to you via text or email.
Data protection
Your information regarding the test may be shared with Peterborough City Council.
