Over the last few months, I have received a number of emails from constituents with questions about Covid-19 testing both locally and nationally. So this morning, I visited the Testing Centre at Sussex Circus in Derby North, to meet with the team working there, discuss the testing process, see the layout of the site from the point of view of a person attending for a test, and find out if there were any issues or concerns about the site, the testing process, or anything else that I could be helpful with.
This visit was fully approved by the testing centre, and it was arranged for me to visit at a quieter time of the day to ensure there was no disruption to the testing process. Social distancing was followed at all times, and the appropriate PPE was always worn.
The testing process the NHS has undertaken is the largest in our nation's history - never before has something like this, on this scale, been undertaken.
The first thing I want to mention is how absolutely amazing the staff at the centre are; they are incredibly helpful and reassuring, they explain the whole process to you, they support you throughout and are just so friendly and kind hearted. If you are at all worried about getting a test or feel nervous or anxious, they will definitely help you feel calm and at ease.
The site has disabled accessibility if required, and is also incredibly clean and hygienic, with clear guidance posted throughout. The rooms where the testing is done have been designed similarly to the design and layout of ambulances and are sterilised and cleaned on a regular basis, with a one-way system throughout. A member of the team will be with you as you do your test, to make sure it is done correctly.
There is guidance on the walls of the testing areas, which is available in languages other than English for those who would prefer it, and hand sanitiser is available throughout. There are also mirrors in the testing rooms to help you do the test correctly.
The actual test itself is really simple, easy to understand and to do, and of course it is absolutely vital to limit the spreading of this virus that if you have Coronavirus symptoms, you do get tested. The team at the site highly encourage booking a test before coming to the site, and after having a test, you must isolate until you receive your result, and continue to isolate if your result comes back as positive, as per Government guidelines.
The site is fully stocked with PPE to ensure all staff are kept safe, and integral support is provided to them to ensure they are complying with the guidance and feel safe at all times. This feedback is then provided to central teams to help ensure that all sites in the Midlands and across the Country are operating properly.
If you had any concerns or worries about going for a test, I really hope that this has made you feel a lot more at ease. The site is a real asset in our fight against Covid-19 and the staff are our heroes and are absolutely amazing. I want to thank them all for everything they have done and continue to do.
If you have any further questions or queries, please do contact me at amanda.solloway.mp@parliament.uk
Stay safe everyone