THE district's lateral flow testing hub at West Maldon Community Centre will close next week to make way for a multitude of free home test collection points.

The last day the centre will be operational is Wednesday, 21 April.

However, Maldon Nub News reported on Monday (12 April) that residents are being urged - now that restrictions are lifting - to make use of free lateral flow Covid-19 testing kits provided for home use and available at locations across Maldon district. These tests are for people who do not have symptoms.

Residents can pick up two boxes of seven tests from numerous locations, including pharmacies and libraries, listed in the article you can find at the link here.

In addition to this, Essex County Council is to launch 14 more library collection sites later this week, meaning each of the 12 districts in the county will have three self-test library community collection points, too. Full details about the new library sites will be released on Friday. Details on all locations are available at the link here.

The tests are quick and easy to do, however help is available to anybody that requires assistance. A dedicated helpline has been set up for anybody who is not sure what to do, how to register the test or how to upload the results. Anyone requiring support can call 03337 726 144.

Anyone requiring additional assistance will be supported and can book a PCR test at one of the many mobile testing units operating across Essex. You can find the details of those by using the link here.

Dr Mike Gogarty, Essex County Council's Director of Public Health, said: "We understand that not everyone has the means or time to visit a testing centre on a regular basis but testing really is vital in stopping the spread of the virus. That is why we have introduced self-testing collection points, making it easier than ever for residents to introduce testing into their weekly routine.

"We know that residents are eager to take part in self-testing and by setting up convenient collection points within local communities, we can ensure they have regular access to testing kits to complete twice a week.

"As restrictions ease and people start to meet up with others outdoors, the need for people who aren't showing symptoms to take part in regular testing is more vital than ever.

"If regular testing is not something you have considered previously and you are not already accessing self-tests in another way, I urge you to pick up test kits from your nearest community collection point, complete them regularly and help to keep your friends and family safe."

Targeted groups, including the households and bubbles of school-aged children and businesses with more than 10 employees should continue to use the specific testing channels designed and already in place for them.

Any residents who are showing Covid-19 symptoms should continue to book a PCR Covid-19 test as normal - you can do that using the link here.