Key workers in Reading to be tested at computer giant's HQ
Microsoft open up their building to help with covid testing
A Covid-19 testing centre for critical workers has been set up at Microsoft’s UK headquarters in Reading.
Lateral flow tests that provide results in around 30 minutes will be offered to asymptomatic workers, who live or work in Wokingham, at the Microsoft Campus in Thames Valley Park.
Wokingham Borough Council, which set up the centre, said it will open later this week and people can book appointments on its website.
The tests are being offered to a range of critical workers, including health and social care staff, police officers, firefighters, supermarket workers, nursery staff and delivery drivers.
They are being encouraged to get tested twice a week.
Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, said:
“We are urging any keyworkers who live or work in the borough, and who are regularly leaving their home to go to work, to come forward for testing.
“This really can make a difference in the fight against Covid-19.
“The tests only take 15 minutes, and they are crucial for identifying people who have coronavirus but are asymptomatic and could be spreading it without realising.
“There is financial support available to anyone who may lose income as a result of having to self-isolate.”
Clare Barclay, chief executive officer of Microsoft UK, said:
“We are proud to be providing our office facilities for the Covid-19 testing program, supporting our local community and the incredible work of the NHS.”
Opening hours
The new government-funded test centre will be open six days a week (Monday to Saturday), from 9am to 4pm, and anyone who wants a test will have to book an appointment at least 48 hours in advance.
According to the council, the “initial agreement” for the council to operate a testing centre on the Microsoft Campus is in place until the end of March.
Other testing centres
The council opened a critical worker testing centre at its offices in Shute End last month and it is planning to open a third in Sindlesham.
Cllr Margetts said the council will soon be able to test 800 people a day and “expand the operation if it comes close to capacity”.