Second asymptomatic coronavirus testing centre opens in Kirkcaldy

A second asymptomatic coronavirus testing facility has opened in Kirkcaldy today.

The facility at the Chapel Neighbourhood Centre is in addition to the one at the Glebe Centre.

A centre is also open at the Maxwell Centre in Cowdenbeath.

The centres offer testing for members of the public who have no symptoms but could be infectious. It also provides support to anyone who tests positive, with access to different financial support alongside practical measures, such as food packages.

Josie Murray, NHS Fife consultant in public health and health protection clinical lead, said: "We’re basing the locations of our community testing sites on the latest data we have, allowing us to focus on targeted local areas which would benefit most from having access to testing for short periods of time.

"Even at this early stage of the programme, we are seeing people without symptoms testing positive for Covid-19. As a result of the support that is available on-site, they are able to access the practical and financial support that they need to self-isolate.

"By getting tested at a local centre, you can find out if you are positive even when you don’t have symptoms and take immediate action to stop the spread of the virus.

"If we can find and isolate more positive cases, that will help us in reducing the spread of COVID-19 to others, and help us to protect our family, friends and the wider community."

The Chapel Neighbourhood Centre will initially open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. These times may change according to demand.

It can be used by anyone who lives in the north Kirkcaldy area and there is no need for an appointment. R

Nigel Kerr, Fife Council head of protective services, said: "This kind of mass community testing provides invaluable information to the NHS and the Scottish Government and can help them when they are making decisions on lockdown restrictions.  

"Of course, anyone who tests positive will be asked to self-isolate, and we know that can be really difficult for some people - physically, mentally but, more often than not, financially.  

"Not everyone is lucky enough to have family, friends or good neighbours nearby who can help with things like getting groceries or picking up prescriptions. Some people are only a week’s wages away from absolute poverty and can’t afford not to work.    

"We don’t want these things to be a barrier to people getting tested. We have staff on site who can speak to you in confidence and help point you to the right support if you need it. So please come along and get tested."