Everyone in Torbay is now able to get free, rapid COVID-19 tests twice a week.

Alongside the vaccine rollout, regular testing for people without symptoms of COVID-19 is at the heart of plans to re-open society and the economy, helping to prevent the spread of the virus.

One in three people with COVID-19 does not experience any symptoms and may be passing on the virus without realising. Regular testing helps to identify those people quickly so they can isolate and prevent spreading the virus.

Rapid LFD testing has so far been available to those most at risk and people who need to leave home for work. Now rapid testing is offered to everyone, with people encouraged to take regular tests to help prevent outbreaks and reclaim a more normal way of life.

Julia Chisnell, Consultant in Public Health for Torbay Council said: “Because around one in three people with COVID-19 shows no symptoms, regular testing for the whole of the community will play an important part in reducing the spread of infection as we open up business and society in the Bay.

“A negative test is not a guarantee that someone does not have the virus. People should continue to follow the hands, face and space and fresh air guidance.”

There are several convenient ways people can get their regular tests in Torbay:

• At the community testing site at Quay West Car Park in Paignton. Book online for a guaranteed slot or drop in
• At one of our new mobile testing units that will be stationed at various sites in Brixham, Paignton and Torbay from 14 April – check our website for daily details
• Ordering home testing kits online or by calling 119
• By collecting testing kits from Clennon Valley local testing site in Paignton during specific times

• From a participating local pharmacy: follow this link and type in ‘Torbay’

More information about testing for COVID-19 in Torbay is available on our testing pages.

Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 should still book a PCR test online or by calling 119. This is a different type of test from the rapid LFD test used for people without symptoms.