A year after the first lockdown, testing continues to play an extremely important role in keeping Torbay’s infection rate down and enabling the roadmap out of lockdown.

Dr Lincoln Sergeant, Torbay’s Director of Public Health, said: “We must continue to drive down the rates of infection in the Bay. It’s increasingly important that we test more of the population to prevent a sharp increase in infections, particularly as we move out of lockdown and more people start leaving home for work or leisure.

“Although we have seen relatively low rates of infection compared to other parts of the country, we must aim to keep numbers down by every measure possible. You can now get a free COVID-19 test in Torbay, whether you have symptoms or not. As well as our residents being able to get tested, we are also asking that all businesses encourage their employees to book regular tests. This will help to keep places of work safer for staff and customers.”

One in three people with COVID-19 show no symptoms and could be spreading the virus without realising it.

For those who work and are unable to work from home, there are several options:

• Businesses registered at Companies House, or any registered charity, can apply for LFD test kits to be sent to their premises for employees to be tested on site.
• Businesses with 10 or more employees can order test kits for employees to conduct testing at home. For each option above, registration must be completed through the Government website before Monday 12 April at

  www.gov.uk/get-workplace-coronavirus-tests

• Torbay Council is offering regular, free community testing for anyone without symptoms who has to go out to work, to help keep your family, friends and colleagues safe. You can book a test at our community testing site at Quay West Car Park in Goodrington, Paignton. Open from 7am–5pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8am-6pm on Saturday (closed Sundays).  Book a test.

Please remember: Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should book a test immediately. You can do this at a local testing site at Clennon Valley in Paignton or Lymington Road in Torquay. Book online at get a coronavirus test or ring 119. Home testing kits can also be booked in the same way.

 If you require further advice, please email Torbay Council’s Public Health Team at CommunityTesting@torbay.gov.uk

More information about testing is available on our webpage