Free at-home Covid-19 testing kits are now available to collect from Manchester’s 10 local libraries.
As part of the drive to support the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, mass rapid testing is being made available to as many people as possible to prevent the further spread of the virus.
These tests – lateral flow devices (LFDs) – take just 30 minutes to be processed and can return a positive or negative result in just one hour.
Members of the public are able to pick up two free tests as part of the ongoing plan to detect local Covid hot spots early as well as reducing the need for any future lockdown restrictions.
As well as libraries, tests are also available at dozens of pharmacies throughout Manchester. Data shows that the vast majority of the population is less than 20 minutes away from their nearest pharmacy meaning they are one of the most convenient locations for people to access.
Assisted tests can also be carried out at a range of locations throughout the city if people are unable to self-administer a test.
Tests can also be ordered online for home delivery if residents are not able to leave their homes.
To order a Covid-19 test online, click here.
David Regan, Director of Public Health in Manchester, said: “One of the key pillars of life returning to normal has been the expansion of testing in the city. Since the beginning of the year, we have been working on how to make Covid tests as easily accessible as possible for our residents.
“By making tests available at well-used and easily found public spaces like libraries we are taking down barriers that could otherwise prevent someone from knowing if they have Covid.
“I hope that as many people as possible take up this offer of free testing, but in the meantime it is still vitally important to keep socially distancing, washing our hands and wearing masks.”
Locations of libraries supplying LFD testing kits
Beswick Library, Grey Mare Lane
The Avenue Library and Learning Centre, Victoria Avenue East, Blackley
Chorlton Library, Manchester Road
Didsbury Library, Wilmslow Road
Gorton Library, Garratt Way
Longsight Library and Learning Centre, Stockport Road
Newton Heath Library, Old Church Street
North City Library, Rochdale Road
Withington Library, Wilmslow Road
Wythenshawe Forum Library, Forum Grove
