PEOPLE in Somerset have access to regular free coronavirus testing from today (Friday, April 9) as the country takes another vital step towards society opening up again.

The Government is encouraging everyone in England to access rapid Covid-19 testing.

The testing is for people without symptoms of the virus and helps break the chain of transmission which might otherwise have gone unidentified, as well as helping to identify and suppress new variants of concern.

From today, there are several routes people in Somerset can use to access lateral flow (rapid) testing.

You will be able to book or collect a test at local community test sites located in Bridgwater, Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Taunton and Yeovil.

CHECK DETAILS OF THE LOCATIONS, DATES AND TIMES FOR SERVICES IN SOMERSET BY CLICKING HERE.

Anyone unable to get to a test centre can order a home testing kit to be sent to them.

HOME TESTING KITS CAN BE ORDERED HERE.

Some workplaces will be providing tests, either within the workplace, or by sending them home.

People are advised to check with their employers for details and use one of the other options if needed.

A new pharmacy collect service is also be available in Somerset with 40 pharmacies signed up and more expected to come on board soon. The service is available to those over the age of 18 without symptoms.

Participating pharmacies will provide a box of seven rapid tests to use twice a week at home.

FIND A PHARMACY WHERE TESTS CAN BE COLLECTED HERE.

Somerset County Council’s director of public health, Trudi Grant, said: “Testing is one of greatest defences against coronavirus.

“Lateral Flow (rapid) testing will be really important as we move forward, and society starts to open up again.

“It will help seek out and isolate asymptomatic cases early, identify and reduce the impact of any new variants of the virus, and play a vital role in limiting the spread of Covid-19.”