How To Get Free Lateral Flow Tests Before Free Testing Is Scrapped This Week
Free lateral flow tests (LFTs) are to be scrapped across the UK, with England the first to introduce the change on 1 April.
This move comes as part of the government's 'living with covid' plan. The plan has been met by large amounts of criticism as covid cases are still high, reaching record levels in some places.
While LFTs will still be available, instead of ordering them for free, individuals will instead have to pay for these tests.
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The government has been drastically scaling back on free lateral flow test deliveries in the runup to the 1 April deadline.
Those attempting to order the free tests are being discouraged from doing so, with the online ordering system telling users: "We want to make sure tests are available for people who need them most."
However, those who are determined to order some free tests may be in luck.
While delivery slots are hard to find, there are brief periods of the day when these are available.
The Twitter account @LFT_alert has been set up to alert users as to when tests are available for delivery.
According to this account the windows in which tests are available for order tend to be around 20 to 45 minutes.
Today (30 March) the account posted that tests were available at 7:03 am, before posting they they had run out in England at 7:30. Later posting, at 09:51, that they were out of stock in Scotland too.
It appears as if those attempting to order tests will have better luck in the mornings and evenings.
"The only thing that appears to be consistent lately is that they appear just after 8pm." The account posted on 24 March.
For those unable to order tests to their homes, you may be able to order for collection from a nearby pharmacy.
After going through the home delivery process, select “pick up tests from a collection point near you”.
After putting in your postcode, you’ll see a list of collection points within a close distance to your home.
You’ll then be given a “collect code” which you will then show at you chosen collection point.
However, even this isn't 100% certain with the website saying: “Your collect code does not reserve test packs for you. Pharmacies may have limited stock and tests may not be available at your preferred pharmacy.”
Isobel Pankhurst