Coronavirus walk-through testing site opens in Littlehampton car park

The facility at St Martins car park in Littlehampton High Street began testing on Monday.

Anyone with coronavirus symptoms, however mild, can get a free swab test that takes less than a minute. Tests should be booked or ordered as soon as symptoms begin at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119, with a result the next day.

Health Minister Lord Bethell said: “Testing is proving an effective way to contain the virus so we are scaling testing capacity and walk-through centres to make it even easier for everyone to get a free coronavirus test.

“Our NHS Test and Trace service will contact you if you test positive or if you have been in close contact with someone who has the virus.”

Dr James Walsh, leader of Arun District Council, said: “The council are working closely with all partners involved in the delivery and running of the National Testing Site in Littlehampton.

“Being able to ensure that members of the public who are displaying symptoms of coronavirus can be tested quickly and locally can only help in the fight against the spread of the virus.”

Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public

transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout (including travelling to and from the testing centre).

Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through testing will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely.

Testing at the new site is due to start during the week beginning Monday, December 7 2020, with more appointments available each day.

Testing is available for everyone, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.

Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them track their contacts.

This will help people to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.

Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, advising them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus.

They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.