Anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) can get a free test to check if they have the virus. Some people without symptoms can have the test too. This test is called the "antigen" or "swab" test.
Covid Testing for all – drive to
You need to get the test done in the first 5 days of having symptoms
If you do not have symptoms, you can only get a test if your hospital has told you to.
Do not wait, apply for the test as soon as you have symptoms
To apply for a test
Call freephone 0808 1964 100 or call NHS 111
Alternatively you can apply for a test on the NHS website (external link)
Covid Testing for all – walk/cycle to
You must cycle or walk to the site - do not use a taxi or public transport
We have a new COVID-19 self-testing centre for people who do not have access to a vehicle and suspect they have coronavirus symptoms.
The walk-to testing centre opened on Monday, 8 June 2020. It's a pilot, the first in the North West, being led by the Department for Health and Social Care.
Who can be tested at the test centre?
The walk-to centre is open to adults and children
- You must have symptoms of coronavirus.
- You must not have access to a vehicle.
- The tests are only suitable for children over the age of 3 and parents must administer the test for children between the ages of 3-5. Children under 3 years are not allowed to enter the test centre even if they come with an adult who is getting tested.
If you want a testing facility you can drive to or to order a home testing kit, view other ways of getting tested for coronavirus on GOV.UK (external link).
Arrange a test
You will not be tested unless you have an appointment
To book a test you'll need to ring the freephone number to make an appointment. Lines are open 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week.
Ring the freephone number 0808 1964 100 to book an appointment.
Rochdale test centre
The walk-to test centre is located in the Car Park to the rear of Rochdale Town Hall, Packer Street, Rochdale OL16 1AB.
To view an image of the testing centre please see this link (external link).
Covid Testing 'Priority'– for keyworkers
Some people can get priority tests
- Are an essential worker, including NHS or social care staff.
- Are asking for tests for the residents and staff of your care home.
- Have a verification code from your employer.
How to appy for a priority test
Telephone: 07894 709010.
Email: hmr.swabbing@nhs.net
Where: Spotland Stadium, Crown Oil Arena, Sandy Lane, Rochdale OL11 5DR
Who can get a test
You can get a test:
- For yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste).
- For someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms.
- For yourself, if you have been told to have a test before you go into hospital, for example, for surgery.
You can get 1 test for each person with symptoms or one for yourself if your hospital tells you that you need it. You can get a test for a child who lives with you, whatever their age.
If you're applying for a test for someone else, and the person is aged 13 or over, check they're happy for you to get a test for them.
What the test involves
A swab test
The test usually involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.
You can do the swab yourself (if you are aged 12 or over) or someone can do it for you. Children aged 11 or under cannot do the swab themselves. Their parent or guardian will have to swab test them.
When to apply for a test
You need to get the test done in the first 5 days of having symptoms
If you do not have symptoms, you can only get a test if your hospital has told you to.
Do not wait, apply for the test as soon as you have symptoms.
To apply for a test
Call freephone 0808 1964 100 or call NHS 111
Alternatively you can apply for a test on the NHS website (external link)
You can apply for a test online
We'll ask you:
- How you want to get the test – at a drive-through or walk-through test site or by ordering a home test kit.
- For details such as your name, mobile phone number and address.
This service is for everyone
To apply for a test please see the NHS website (external link)