Cornwall Partners in Care News

This information and guidance relating to testing for Key Workers has been circulated by Cornwall Council and is listed here for reference.

Where are the drive through testing facilities?
There are national testing facilities at
·         Seaton Barracks Plymouth
·         Honiton Road Park and Ride, Exeter
 
In addition, there are local facilities at
·         Threemilestone Industrial Estate
·         Menheniot near Liskeard
 
Full details on location and how to access the facility will be given to you after you book.
 
How do you book the tests with the different facilities?
A key worker or their line manager can book online.
 
The national testing service gives access to the Plymouth and Exeter testing centres. There are also some home testing kits available. It can be accessed here: https://self-referral.test-for-coronavirus.service.gov.uk/
 
The local testing service gives access to all testing facilities and is available here:  http://cv19.shor.tn/referral

How can I ensure that I attend the closest facility to my home address?
That will be arranged for you if you use the local service. If you use the national service, you will be offered a test at Plymouth.
 
What is the eligibility criteria?
Testing is available for any key worker who is self-isolating due to symptoms of coronavirus either in themselves or a member of their household. It is the symptomatic person in the household who is tested. People should be tested in the first 5 days of symptoms, ideally in the first 3 days. If the symptomatic person is under 5 years old or is taking warfarin they cannot be tested at the national testing sites in Plymouth and Exeter.
 
Why do people get rejected?
This may occur if people have had symptoms for more than 5 days or they don’t have symptoms, or they would not be able to return to work even if the test is negative e.g. they are in the shielding category.

What options are available for people who don’t drive?
There are home testing kits available through the national testing service, but the number of tests is limited and demand has been out-stripping supply.
 
Is there going to be a ‘pop up’ service in Cornwall?
A mobile service across Devon and Cornwall is being set up.
 
How long will it take to get the results?
Results are normally available within 24 hours and are sent to the individual tested.
 
If the test is negative when can the person return to work?
If your test result turns out to be negative, you can safely return to work, as long as:

• you are well enough
• you have not had a high temperature for 48 hours
• anyone you live with who has symptoms also tests negative

 
If the test is positive when can the person return to work?
If your test result is positive, or someone you live with tests positive, you cannot return to work. You’ll need to continue to self-isolate as outlined in the guidance.