NHS COVID-19 lateral flow tests
Free NHS rapid tests to keep at home, for people aged 12 and over at highest risk from COVID-19, so they can start treatment quickly.
- Free on the NHS for people at highest risk, aged 12 and over
- One box of 5 tests each time
- Collect at the counter any time we’re open: no appointment needed
- Someone else can collect them for you
Reserving is optional: you can just come to the counter. Bring your NHS letter if you have one.
If you feel very unwell, call NHS 111, or in an emergency, 999.
What you get
Who can have them
People aged 12 and over at highest risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19. That includes a weakened immune system, some cancers and blood conditions, an organ transplant, chronic kidney disease stage 4 or 5, severe liver disease, sickle cell disease, Down’s syndrome, HIV with a weakened immune system, some lung conditions, and conditions such as MS, motor neurone disease or Parkinson’s. The NHS usually writes to people who qualify.
Why keep them at home
COVID-19 treatments work best when they’re started early. With tests in the cupboard you can test as soon as symptoms start and, if it’s positive, contact your GP surgery, NHS 111 or your hospital specialist about treatment straight away.
What we ask
Your name, date of birth and address, and which condition makes you eligible, as the NHS asks us to record. An NHS letter or email helps, but you don’t need one.
Quick answers
- Can someone collect them for me?
- Yes: a friend, relative or carer can. They give us your details, and their own name and address.
- How many can I have?
- One box of 5 tests each time you collect.
- Do I need symptoms?
- No. Collect them before you need them, so they’re ready at home.
- Can I do the test in the pharmacy?
- No. The tests are for using at home.
- How much do NHS COVID-19 lateral flow tests cost?
- Free if you’re eligible.
- Do I need an appointment?
- No. Come to the counter any time we’re open, or reserve online first if you’d like.
- How long does it take?
- A few minutes at the counter.
- Where is it?
- Oswaldtwistle Pharmacy, 300 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 3JD.
- When are you open?
- Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm.
Your visit, start to finish
- 1
Learn
What it is, and whether it’s for you: it’s all above. Any questions, call us on 01254 399898 or pop in.
- 2
Come in
Any time we’re open, to the counter at 300 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 3JD. No appointment needed. If you’d like them ready, reserve online first.
- 3
At the counter
It takes a few minutes. Ask for a quiet word in our private room if you’d rather.
