Community Covid testing centre opens at University’s Bedford Campus

Mon 09 November, 2020

A new Covid19 facility has opened at the University of Bedfordshire, expanding the local testing capacity for anybody in the borough who needs a test.

The centre, located in the front carpark of University’s Bedford campus is operating on a walk-through basis, with no cars allowed as there is no public parking available. The entrance to the testing facility is separate from the main campus entrance, accessible from the footpath which is clearly marked with signage.

As a walk-through site, people requiring a test must book online and then either walk or cycle to the Polhill Avenue site for their allocated slot, not drive or take public transport. Strict safety control measures will be in place – a face covering must be worn and social distancing will need to be followed at all times.

Professor Rebecca Bunting, Vice Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire said:

Whilst Covid cases in our University remain low, we are delighted to be housing this walk-through testing facility for our community should they need to access it. It will enable local residents and our University’s students and staff to get tested if they have symptoms which is a great advantage in the fight against Covid19.

It will be open every day providing testing for students, staff and local residents who pre-book a test online. It expands on the local testing availability currently provided at Borough Hall and Prebend Street car parks in the town.

Louise Jackson Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Testing for Covid19 is one of the first lines of defence in reducing infections. Rates in Bedford Borough are have been increasing significantly in recent weeks and we are seeing more people admitted to hospital.

“The walk-through testing site is easy for people to use and you don’t need a car. You can book a test online or by calling 119.

“Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms; a new, persistent cough, high temperature, loss or change in sense of smell or taste, should immediately self-isolate at home with the rest of their household and arrange a test.

"Anyone testing positive for Covid19 will be helped by the NHS Test and Trace service to identify the people they’ve recently been in contact with so they can be alerted.”

Test results will be available within 24-72 hours of completing the test. People testing positive should self-isolate for 10 days, with other people in their household needing to isolate for 14 days.

Drive-through testing is also still available in Bedford at Borough Hall. To book a test you can visit www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or call 119, seven days a week.

Where will the site be located?

The new testing site is located at: Bedford Campus Car Park, University of Bedfordshire, Polhill Avenue, Bedford. MK41 9EA

When can I get a test?

Appointments are available every day from 8am-8pm. Tests can be booked via www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.

Who can book a test?

You can book a test if:

You have symptoms of COVID-19
You can travel to the test site on foot or by motorcycle or bicycle and don’t need to use public transport
You have a face covering
You adhere to social distancing at all times, when travelling to and from the site

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Most people with COVID-19 will have at least one of these symptoms:

A high temperature
A new persistent cough
A change in sense of taste or smell

If you have any of these symptoms, you should book a test.

What do I need to bring to the test with me?

You must bring a valid form of ID, proof of your appointment confirmation and a face covering.

If you do not have a valid form of ID or access to a mobile phone or have an email account, please discuss this when making your appointment.

What will the test involve?

The test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat, which can be done by the person themselves (self-administered) or by someone else (assisted). Those being tested may experience some mild discomfort but it should not hurt.

Can I bring my family members with me?

Only those being tested should be at the test site. If you can’t leave your family at home, they may come with you but must wear a face covering. However, children under the age of three will not be permitted as it would be unsafe for them to wear a face covering.

What do I do while I’m waiting for my appointment or my test results?

While you are waiting for your appointment or your test result, you and everyone in your household must stay at home to prevent the spread of the infection.

When will I get my results?

Test results will not be held by the council. The testing site will send you your test results by email and text message within 24 - 72 hours of completing the test. If you don’t have an email address or a phone number, you can contact 119 for your results.

Further information:

Watch this helpful video for a step-by-step guide on visiting the local testing site.