New rapid community testing site goes live in Rainham
Havering Council has opened a new community testing site in Rainham today (4 March 2021), offering rapid lateral flow tests (LFTs) for people who do not have symptoms.
The new site, which is the first to be completely run by Havering Council staff, is open for drop-in tests from this afternoon, and bookable appointments from tomorrow morning (5 March 2021).
In contrast to the other sites, which are located in libraries across Havering, this new site is based within a retail unit directly opposite Rainham station.
It will continue to provide Covid 19 testing services as the country begins to open up from lockdown, in line with the Government’s new roadmap.
Approximately one in three people who have Covid 19 do not show any symptoms, and could unwittingly spread the virus.
Those who cannot work from home are strongly encouraged to take regular, twice-weekly rapid tests as part of their working routine to help stop the spread.
The Council now has six rapid testing sites set up across the borough, making it quick and easy for local residents who still have to leave the house for work to get tested regularly.
The Council is continuing to identify possible new sites to make sure everyone has easy access to a testing site.
Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“Havering is once again leading the way in helping the community by providing local Covid 19 testing to those who cannot work from home.
"I am pleased that we are also able to give new life to a long-disused commercial space in the south of the borough.
“Rainham has a strong industrial and business sector, many of which have been able to stay open during this crisis, with employees taking extra precautions to keep the business and local economy going.
“With a new site right on their doorstep, I’m urging all local business owners and employers to work with their staff and allow them time to get regular, twice-weekly tests to help keep the virus at bay.”
If you cannot work from home, you can book a rapid community test by visiting our testing page.
Those who are showing symptoms should not visit these sites, and instead follow instructions on the website, or call 119.