Cookie Consent by Free Privacy Policy Generator

Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing

What are LFD tests and who can use them?

LFDs are used for asymptomatic testing. This is an additional tool to identify COVID-19 cases, contain the virus and prevent its transmission.

Households, childcare and support bubbles of primary and secondary-age pupils and staff can now take twice-weekly lateral flow tests to support the reopening of schools.

More information about how to get a rapid lateral flow tests from Community Collect may be found on the Coronavirus Community Testing pages.

Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 should follow the self-isolation guidance and seek a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.

Should I also have a PCR test?

It is a requirement to have a confirmatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test following a positive lateral flow device (LFD) test taken at home or at an Asymptomatic Test Site (ATS), such as those situated in some workplaces, universities, secondary schools and colleges.

  • This means that staff, pupils or students receiving any positive LFD test result should immediately follow the isolation advice for themselves, their household and close contacts and must seek a confirmatory PCR test.
  • You can now also have a PCR test if you are a close contact of a confirmed case.
  • View the GOV.UK Guidance 

Booking a PCR test

You can now book a PCR test if you have symptoms or you are a close contact of a positive case.

Please visit the GOV.UK coronavirus testing page and see the instructions below on how to book a PCR test online if you are a close contact.

Testing process

  • The first question asks if the individual is a key worker - tick "no"
  • The next question asks about whether the individuals has symptoms - tick "no"
  • The next question asks about whether the individual has been asked to have a follow up test - tick "no"
  • The next question asks if you are part of a government trial - tick "no"

The next gives a number of options including: "I've been told to get a test by my local council, health protection team or healthcare professional" - tick this option and then it should take you through all the other questions required for booking a test.

Reporting positive tests

Please find information on how to report positive tests below

Lateral flow device testing | Documents and downloads