Extended timescale for temporary coronavirus mobile testing unit in Paulton

The temporary COVID-19 mobile testing unit at Paulton Rovers Football Club will be available until August 27 to give people in Bath and North East Somerset better access to local testing.

The mobile testing unit (MTU) was originally scheduled to run until August 14 but is now continuing to operate daily for residents booking a test via the Government portal, except on its two rest days of August 20 and August 25.

The facility in the football club’s car park means many people in the district do not have to travel to Bristol Airport to get a test.

The MTU is part of the COVID-19 National Testing Programme and appointments can be made through https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested. People without internet access can dial 119.

Residents attending the Paulton unit for a test should arrive by car and not use public transport.

Only people who are experiencing symptoms of the virus are urged to book themselves in for a coronavirus test at the unit.

You can ask for a test: for yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste) for someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms.

You can ask for a test for a child who lives with you if they have coronavirus symptoms, whatever their age.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, Safeguarding and Public Health, said “I am really delighted that the MTU has had its time in Paulton extended. Since its arrival at the beginning of this month, the MTU has supported the national testing programme by giving residents in Bath & North East Somerset greater access to local tests. If anyone is concerned that they have any of the symptoms of coronavirus I would urge them to book themselves in for a test. Please remember you need to drive to the unit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The postcode for Paulton Football Club is BS39 7RF.

People with symptoms are also advised to self-isolate at home. No one in the household or its support bubble should leave home if any one person has symptoms. There is more guidance on what this involves on the government’s website at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance

Tests at the mobile testing unit are subject to availability and if all appointments in Paulton are booked, an alternative testing site will be offered.

For tests to be effective you must be symptomatic. Symptoms of the virus are a new continuous cough, a high temperature and a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell. More information can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/check-if-you-have-coronavirus-symptoms/

More guidance can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested#who-can-be-tested

For all council service updates visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/coronavirus