Who can still get free Covid tests across the UK and can I buy LFTs?
Some limited free testing for the public will continue in Scotland until the end of April, and in Wales and Northern Ireland until the end of June.
How has testing changed in England?
Free LFTs are no longer generally available to members of the public.
Most people with symptoms are no longer entitled to free PCR tests either.
Some groups can still get free tests:
- NHS staff who care for patients
- hospital patients who need PCRs before treatment
- care home residents
- people working in high-risk settings, including care homes and prisons
- hospital patients who are discharged to care homes or hospices
If you still qualify, you may be able to order LFTs online (if you have an NHS login), or by calling 119.
People who are eligible for community Covid drug treatments because they’re at higher risk if they catch Covid are being sent LFTs to keep at home in case they develop symptoms.
The government says it will be able to expand the testing system again in the future if necessary, such as if a new variant of concern emerges.
You may still need to test before or after travelling abroad. You must buy private tests for this – you can’t use free NHS tests.
Can I buy lateral flow tests now?
Yes. High street pharmacies charge about £2 per test.
The government has a list of private test providers.
However, you cannot report the result of a privately-bought LFT on the government website.
