A step by step guide on how to take and register a lateral flow test

Please note that free lateral flow tests will cease to be available at pharmacies after the end of March

What is the rapid testing programme?

The rapid testing programme is being used to help detect and fight COVID-19. It uses lateral flow tests and the programme is only for people showing no symptoms. The tests are free.

Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 should book a test online: www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.

Who can access the rapid testing programme?

Everyone can access the rapid testing programme – there is no eligibility criteria.

Those who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days should not take a lateral flow test.

How do I get tested?

Tests can be accessed via any of the means below:

Order a home testing kit online here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests
Collect a home test kit at a local pharmacy
Collect a home test kit at any of Tameside’s 8 local libraries, find opening times here: www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries

Active Tameside receptions (during usual opening hours):
Active Ashton
Active Copley
Active Etherow
Active Hyde
Active Ken Ward
Adventure Longdendale
Active/Adventure Medlock
Tameside Wellness Centre

Home Testing

There are different types of lateral flow test kits available; please check that you have the correct instructions for the type of home test kit you have.
The instruction booklet for the ORIENT GENE lateral flow tests can be viewed and downloaded from here.

Here is a summary of the different kits:

Further information:

Store your test kit at normal temperature or in a cool dry place (2oC to 30oC).
Do not leave in direct sunlight and do not store in the freezer
Test kits should be used at room temperature (15oC to 30oC)
If the test kit has been stored in an area less than 15oC, leave at normal room temperature for 30 minutes before using

A step by step guide on how to take and register a lateral flow test

Downloadable instructions on how to complete a lateral flow test are below:

Your test results

Report the result at www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result or by calling 119:

every time you use a rapid lateral flow test kit
as soon as possible after you get the result – must be within 24 hours

If you receive a positive result you should stay at home and book a confirmatory PCR test: www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test immediately.

Self-Isolation – for advice and guidance including on financial support available please go to www.tameside.gov.uk/coronavirus/selfisolation