Extended access to Covid-19 staff testing

Testing for Covid-19 has now been extended to include a range of further key workers across Cheshire.

Initially focused on frontline NHS staff, testing is now available for a wide range of key workers including care home staff, domiciliary care providers, staff working for sheltered accommodation and extra care housing services and those working in mental health and learning disabilities services.

Testing is also now available for the police, fire and rescue and all who work for North West Ambulance Service and NHS 111 – not just paramedics.

The aim is to enable key workers who have been self-isolating because they, or members of their household, are symptomatic to continue to work – if they test negative.

Key workers are encouraged to contact their employer direct to request a test. Those who meet the criteria for testing will then be referred to Cheshire CCG’s Coordination Centre who will co-ordinate access to a number of local testing sites.

Appointments can only be made via your 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 think you are eligible for testing, please have a conversation with your employer who can refer you to Cheshire CCG’s Co-ordination Centre.