By KLTV Newsdesk –
In a national effort to reduce infection rates, twice-weekly asymptomatic Covid-19 testing is currently available for everyone in England.
There are a few different ways to access twice-weekly asymptomatic tests. However, it can be difficult for some people to access these options for a number of reasons.
Between 21 May and 28 May, one-day mobile collections points for tests will be open in the following areas: Dewsbury, Ravensthorpe, Heckmondwike, Honley, Huddersfield, and Saville Town.
It is encouraged that residents take advantage of this pilot system if they are unable to access the twice-weekly asymptomatic tests through the other options available.
Anyone over 18 can collect two packs of home testing kits (containing seven tests each) – the times, dates and locations are in the below table.
There is no need to book to receive the tests, just turn up and please wear a face covering and social distance from those outside your household or bubble.
The tests come with instructions on how to use the tests and how frequently they should be taken.
As with the previous collection points, Kirklees Council says they will have staff on hand to show residents how to use the tests if required.
At some of the sites, residents will also be able to take an extra test at the mobile collection point.
Mobile collection site timetable
Blue Date – Test and collect
Red Date – Collect only
Date | Time | Area | Location | Address |
Friday 21 May | 9:00am – 16:00pm | Dewsbury | Sainsbury’s | Railway Street, Railway St, Dewsbury WF12 8EB |
Monday 24 May | 9:00am – 16:00pm | Ravensthorpe | Ravensthorpe Shopping Park | Ravensthorpe Shopping Park, Huddersfield Road, WF13 3JR |
Tuesday 25 May | 9:00am – 17:00pm | Heckmondwike | Morrisons | 17 Union St, Heckmondwike WF16 0HD |
Wednesday 26 May | 9:00am – 17:00pm | Honely | Honley Community Centre | Honley Community Centre,
Stony Ln, Honley, Holmfirth, HD9 6DY |
Friday 28 May | 9:00am – 16:00pm | Dewsbury | Sainsbury’s | Railway Street, Railway St, Dewsbury WF12 8EB |
Friday 28 May | 9:00am – 17:00pm | Saville Town | Taleem Training and Community Centre | 36 Orchard Street, Savile Town, Dewsbury WF12 9LT |
Help Reduce the Spread
Speaking on the collection points, Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Public Health at Kirklees Council, said: “In addition to getting vaccinated and always remembering hands, face, space, another great way you can help reduce the spread of Covid-19 in your community is getting a rapid lateral flow test twice a week if you are not showing any symptoms.
“Asymptomatic testing helps us identify people who are infectious and could spread the infection to others unknowingly. This is particularly important with restrictions now starting to ease and it now being much more likely to come into contact with people from other households.
“We’re piloting these mobile collection points to make it even easier for people to take up the offer of getting tested twice a week.”
Other ways to get asymptomatic tests
Beyond the mobile collection points, there are various regular sites across Kirklees, these offer the same tests as at the mobile points.
Workplaces may also offer employees lateral flow testing.
Home test kits can also be ordered online, but it is advised that residents only use this service if no other options are available, as the service is aimed at those who are unable to get a test from the other methods.