Regular testing is necessary even if you feel fine and especially if you are in the company of others. Completing a test means that in the event someone has the virus, we're able to contain it and stop the spread. The test results are a great way to know whether you're fit to come to college or if you should isolate.
You are free to collect a test kit from room S012 at the Clapham campus. Taking a test means that we keep our family, friends and colleagues safe.
If you have any questions, we may have answered them below!
Q - Can I pick up a home test without signing for it?
A. No. We only have limited stocks and you must sign for yours to ensure they are distributed fairly. You can collect your test kit box from room S012 at Clapham.
Q - How many tests will I get?
A. You will get 1 box which contains 7 tests for you to do at home over the next 3 weeks. Once you upload your 7 results, you can request more test kits.
Q - How often should I test myself?
A. We're asking you to take a test twice a week (every 3 or 4 days apart)
You will need to report every result to NHS Test and Trace on the same day you take the test by going to: https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result and to the College at: https://www.lambethcollege.ac.uk/lateral-flow-testing-at-college
If you test positive or get coronavirus symptoms, you should not come to the College.
You must:
- self-isolate immediately
- get a PCR test to confirm the result by dialling 119
- follow the stay at home guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection
A negative result means the test did not find signs of coronavirus. But this does not guarantee you do not have coronavirus, so you should keep following all coronavirus advice including:
- regular handwashing
- social distancing
- wearing a face mask as required
Q - How do I take my test?
A. Each kit has step by step instructions, but you can also watch a HM government how to step by step video at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9XR8RZxKNo&list=PLvaBZskxS7tzQYlVg7lwH5uxAD9UrSzGJ
Q - Can I use them to test Family, household members and others on my support bubble?
A. No. These are only for Lambeth College staff.
From 1 March 2021, household members, childcare bubble or support bubble can request their own home testing kits through:
- Their employer if they offer testing to employees
- at a local test site
- by collecting a home test kit from a Government test site
- by ordering a home test kit online.
Q - Is it compulsory?
A. No, but we would like everyone to take part as this will help to keep us all safe.
Q - Should I continue testing after I've had the vaccine?
A. Yes, continue to test even though you have had the vaccine.
Q - If I have a positive PCR COVID-19 test, when should I start the lateral flow antigen tests again?
A. If you test positive, recommence home testing 90 days after the positive test was taken.
Q – I am on annual leave, off work sick with something other than COVID-19, or isolating as I am named as a contact. How frequently should I test myself when not in work?
A. This programme is designed for use by asymptomatic staff twice a week just before coming into work. You do not need to test if on annual leave, self-isolating, or otherwise not in work.
