Everyone in England will be able to access free, regular, rapid coronavirus testing from 9 April, the Government has announced, describing this as a “significant step forward, paving the way for businesses and society reopening”. 

Anyone will be able to access free, rapid lateral flow tests (LFDs) for themselves and their families to use twice a week, in line with clinical guidance.  Rapid testing has so far been available to those most at risk and people who need to leave home for work. 

A new ‘Pharmacy Collect’ service is also launching which will provide an additional route to regular testing.

Read the press release to find out more, including how the expanded regular testing offer will be delivered. Note: The universal offer is currently for England only. (The Devolved Administrations make their own policy decisions around testing.)