People in Cornwall urged to share issues with Covid-19 testing system
It's so officials can report back any problems to the government
Last updated 15th Sep 2020
People in Cornwall are being urged to share their experiences of the Covid-19 testing system.
It is so officials can then let the government know about any issues and where improvements are needed.
Cornwall Council wants to know about any difficulties you’ve had with the test booking system, how far you've had to travel for tests, and how long it took to get results.
The information provided will be used to make recommendations to government about urgent changes that need to be made to the programme, so it’s easier for anyone who needs one to access a test.
You can get in touch with Cornwall Council by direct message on its Facebook page at facebook.com/forCornwall or via email at phdesk@cornwall.gov.uk
It comes as the government says capacity is being increased at Covid-19 testing labs, as some hospitals warn of a shortage.
The body representing health trusts in England, NHS Providers, says medical staff are having to self-isolate at home because they can't be checked.
“Quick and easily available testing is an absolutely vital weapon in our fight against Covid-19, but there have been some well-documented issues with the government’s testing programme and I’m deeply concerned that not everyone who needs a test can access one.
“We’ve heard cases of people being asked to travel miles out of Cornwall for a test, or having to wait more than a week for the results – neither of which is remotely acceptable.
“It’s clear to me that if we’re to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Cornwall, we need an efficient, easily accessible testing system. At the moment I’m not convinced we have that.
“That’s why we’d like to hear from anyone who has struggled with the testing system about their experiences. If we understand what the problems are here in Cornwall we can put the case to government that urgent changes need to be made.”
Cornwall Council portfolio holder for children, wellbeing and public health, Sally Hawken
“If we’re to keep Covid cases low in Cornwall it’s important that we have an efficient and easily available testing programme in place for our residents to use if they need to.
“By understanding where the problems with the current system are, we can work together with our colleagues in the NHS and with government to make the changes that the current system needs in order to better serve our residents.”
Rachel Wigglesworth, Cornwall Council’s director of public health
You can find more information about testing, including how and where to get a test, on Cornwall Council’s website.