Take part in Tamworth’s Covid-19 testing pilot and help families in need

People taking part in a Covid-19 testing pilot in Tamworth now have the chance to help local families.

NHS Test and Trace, in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, Tamworth Borough Council and the Royal Mail, has targeted around 6,000 households in the Glascote and Stonydelph areas to help stop the spread of infection and learn more about how coronavirus is being transmitted in the area.

For every test that is brought back to the main collection point at the Sacred Heart Church in Glascote Heath, Staffordshire County Council will match fund £1 up to a total of £500.

The money will help the Heart of Tamworth Community Shop, which is helping families in need throughout the pandemic.

Testers from Staffordshire County Council will also be on hand at the collection point to assist anyone who needs help with their home testing kits.

Dr Richard Harling, Director for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said: “As well as promoting regular testing, which is essential if we are to manage the spread of Covid-19 and keep shops, pubs and other businesses open, we also wanted to do something to help the local community.

“If people drop their completed test kits off at the Sacred Heart collection point from today onwards, we will match fund up to £500 to help the Heart of Tamworth Community Shop. We’ve seen a very encouraging response to the testing pilot so far, and we’re hoping that this will be an extra incentive to get a test and drop them off.

“With one in three cases of Covid-19 showing no symptoms whatsoever, testing is the best way to help us learn more about how the virus is spreading locally and may just save the life of someone they care for.”

Father Michael White, from Sacred Heart Church in Tamworth, said: “During the pandemic, the Heart of Tamworth Community Project has been working hard to support and protect local people. By returning your test kit, you will also be doing your bit to support our vital work.

“We’re delighted to be able to play a part in something that can help the people of Glascote Heath to come back together again as a community. The truth is that it might also help save lives so we are delighted to do our bit. So please come and get a testing kit to we can protect each other.”