Access to Covid home testing? What's your experience?

Dee78

Hi! 
I have a disability which prevents me from driving or cycling ( even if I could,  I couldn't afford a car, as a low paid key worker!) I am worried that home testing seems to be very unavailable, when I tried they had run out! 
What's your experiences? Are home tests being rationed for those who need them? We hear so much in the news of how far people have to drive for a test, but what about those who can't drive? Are disabled non drivers disadvantaged, and also those who cant afford cars, many of which who could be low paid key workers? Both those groups may be already more vulnerable to covid, and then further disadvantaged by not being able to access a test. Your views or if needed any campaigning be great! Thanks?

Cher_Alumni

Hi @Dee78

My nephew started with cold symptoms and my sister was able to book him in for a test online for the very same afternoon.  I know this picture varies across the UK mind you.  

You raise an interesting point about how to travel to the test site if you are disabled and don't have transport.  Have any of our members experienced this I wonder, and how did they cope? 

Don't forget, you can always order a home test via the NHS website here too

Chloe_Alumni

Hi @Dee78, my aunt was able to get a home test which was the most accessible way for her to do it. I hope that helps.

Richard_Scope

My wife was able to get a test at home by ordering online. and posting it back. We didn't receive any results back though and she had to be tested at work.

Dee78

Thanks so much, all for your replies. It sounds like you have had varying experiences, some good, some not so good. You've been very helpful!
Scope, it would be interesting to hear what people's experiences have been, and whether equal access to testing for disabled non car drivers needs to be looked into. 
Wishing you all well, Dalya

Cress

I tried to get a home testing kit but none were available. 
I was told to go a couple of miles to a testing centre that had been set up but not to go by public transport or taxi....I wasnt going to walk a couple of miles to stand among others who had covid symptoms....

Dee78

Thanks Cress, that sounds impossible! How are we supposed to walk a couple of miles? Sounds to me you are at a disadvantage if you can't drive, or walk far. And then the challenges of standing in queue! Hope you managed to find a way to get tested? 

Cress

I went online a few days in a row only to get the same answer....so I was never tested, I'm sure there are plenty more people who give up.
Whatever it was got no worse, fortunately.

Dee78

I am so glad you are doing okay, but sorry you had no luck getting tested! That's not great.