Some free Torbay covid tests to continue

Council will fund scheme for vulnerable people

Free lateral flow tests will continue to be offered to Torbay residents who need them most, even after the government stops offering universal free tests from 1 April.

Following discussions with Torbay’s director of public health, Dr Lincoln Sargeant, Torbay Council will continue to provide free lateral flow tests to people going into care homes, visiting elderly relatives and volunteers helping vulnerable people. 

Speaking at a full council meeting, council leader Steve Darling (Lib Dems, Barton with Watcombe) said the measures were in place following the government’s “somewhat misty” policy announcements on free testing going forwards.

The move will cost the council around £50,000 and should last until early summer when it is hoped infections will be lower.

Cllr Darling added: “We’re keen to support those who are most vulnerable in our communities across Torbay and we’re planning to do that by continuing free lateral flow tests for the most vulnerable groups.”

“From 1 April where these individuals may have to start paying for tests, we as a local authority will continue to pay for these tests for these groups in Torbay.

“While the government’s way forward on this remains somewhat misty it does appear that they will continue free lateral flows in the NHS care sector. There is still significant uncertainty as to which vulnerable groups may receive free lateral flow tests.”

Covid restrictions in England ended on Thursday 24 February as part of the government’s “living with covid” plan.

The government also stated that free mass symptomatic and asymptomatic testing for the public will be reserved for “the most vulnerable” from 1 April.

People with covid symptoms will be asked to exercise personal responsibility when deciding whether to stay at home – until then they are still advised to do so

From April, current government guidance on covid passports will also end and it will no longer recommend venues use the NHS covid pass.

The government says it expects a box of seven lateral flow tests to cost around £20 from 1 April.

In order to stop people stockpiling lateral flow tests, the government has already limited the number that people can order from one a day to one per 72 hours.