Everyone in Sheffield can now access free and quick Covid tests - here's how

The LFD tests should be taken twice weekly and are for people who do not have symptoms but could still be spreading the deadly virus. They are easy to use and give results in 30 minutes.

Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms must book a symptomatic test, also known as a PCR test, by calling 119 or booking online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and must self-isolate immediately.

Those who get a positive LFD test must also book a PCR test within 48 hours to confirm the result.

Susan Hird, consultant in public health in Sheffield, said: “As ever we’re asking people to test regularly so that we can keep this virus at bay. The opportunity to get free lateral flow tests at a number of locations across the city or to order them online now makes it so much easier for us to do this.

"Getting into the habit of twice-weekly rapid LFD testing means that we can keep each other safe and, alongside the vaccine, ensure we can continue to ease our way out of lockdown. I would also encourage people to download the Covid-19 NHS app so that as many people as possible can be contacted if they have been in contact with someone who has the virus.

"In Sheffield, our local track and trace team are successfully contacting 95% of all people who have tested positive with Covid, which is reassuring for all of us.”

There are several ways to get an LFD test in Sheffield. Supervised rapid tests are available at The English Institute of Sport Sheffield (EISS) lateral flow test site on Coleridge Road, Sheffield S9 5DA.

It’s open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and appointments can be booked at https://sheffieldbooking.sishost.co.uk/OnlineBookings/appointment.html.

People can also collect test kits from this testing site without the need for an appointment and Sheffield employers with a workplace with less than 10 staff can pick them up on their behalf.

2 packs of 7 tests for home testing can also be collected from a local pharmacy or test site, or people can order online to get a pack of tests sent to their home.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.