UNPAID carers in Northwich and Winsford without Covid-19 symptoms can now access rapid testing for the virus – and more people could benefit in the new year.

Cheshire West and Chester Council opened its first rapid testing centre at the Stanney Oaks Leisure Centre, in Ellesmere Port, today, December 16.

The pilot aims to identify unpaid carers who have Covid-19 without symptoms and so stop them from spreading the virus unknowingly, and test results should be provided within 30 minutes.

CWAC intends to widen the pilot out by inviting additional groups to take part in the new year.

Cllr Louise Gittins, CWAC leader, said: “Our approach is different from that which people might have seen when Liverpool piloted its mass testing programme.

“Areas with Tier 3 restrictions have also been offered more extensive mass testing, with support from the military, but as a Tier 2 area we have developed a more focused approach.

Northwich Guardian: Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester CouncilCllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council

“We have a small amount of tests which we are targeting carefully to help protect people in our community who are most at risk.

“This type of testing has an important part to play in the fight against Covid-19 and we are pleased to be chosen as one of 67 pilot boroughs in the country to use testing in this way.”

Any unpaid carers who would like to join the pilot but who have not been contacted directly by the council can visit Stanney Oaks for a test from 9am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.

No appointment is necessary but there may be a queue.

Testing for people with Covid symptoms – a new, continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of taste or smell – remains in place for everyone in the borough by calling 119 or visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus