Coronavirus testing for key workers

Key workers in Cheshire

The Coronavirus National Testing Programme has been expanded leading to the availability of wider testing for Coronavirus (Covid-19) for key workers across Cheshire.

In line with Government guidance anyone who has Covid-19 symptoms or is currently self-isolating who thinks they may be a key worker should contact their employer to check their eligibility for testing.

More detailed information on the types of workers who may now be eligible for testing can be found here.

Tracey Cole, Executive Director of Strategy and Partnerships at NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "The people of Cheshire need as many of our key workers as possible to be able to continue to fulfil their vital roles. With a negative test, many key workers who are currently self-isolating could potentially return to work.

"Any key worker who is experiencing Covid-19 symptoms is urged to get in touch with their employer to request a test. Where a key worker is self-isolating due to a family member, testing is also available for the family member.

"There is currently ample capacity for testing so, if you think you might be eligible, please don't hesitate to get in touch with your employer."

Key workers who meet the criteria can be referred for testing, including via an NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group Coordination Centre, with access supported to a number of local and regional testing sites.

Leighton Hospital

Regional Testing Centres are already in place at Haydock, Manchester Airport and Preston College, with local sites now also up-and-running at both the Countess of Chester Hospital and Leighton Hospital. Work is ongoing to explore the possibility of a third Cheshire testing site in Macclesfield.

For people who are referred, but don't have a car, the local Cheshire sites can also be accessed on foot.

Those eligible for testing can only be allocated an appointment at a Covid-19 testing facility via their employer. Anyone who attempts to turn up at a testing facility that hasn't followed the correct booking procedure will be turned away, with no exceptions.

If you employ key workers in Cheshire, but are unsure how to refer for testing, please email: workingtogetherascheshire@nhs.net