KEY workers showing symptoms of Covid-19 can now apply to be tested.

The tests also extend to anyone in the household.

Essential workers can book a test, by choosing a drive-through appointment or home test kit.

Home testing kits will initially be limited.

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An employer referral portal will allow employers to refer essential workers.

If referred through this portal, essential workers will receive a text message with a unique invitation code to book a test for themselves.

The test involves taking a swab of the nose and the back of the throat.

Are you a key worker?

Government list of essential workers and those prioritised for testing 

· All NHS and social care staff

· Essential public services staff, including: prisons, probation, courts and tribunals staff, judiciary; religious staff; charities and workers delivering critical frontline services; those responsible for the management of the deceased; journalists and broadcasters

· Public safety and national security staff, including: police and support staff; Ministry of Defence civilians, contractors and armed forces personnel; fire and rescue service employees; National Crime Agency staff, those maintaining border security

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· Transport workers

· Education and childcare workers

· Critical personnel in the production and distribution of food, drink and essential goods

· Those critical to the provision of other essential goods, such as medical supply chain and distribution workers, including veterinary medicine

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· Local and national government staff critical to the effective delivery of the coronavirus response, or delivering essential public services, such as the payment of benefits

· Public and environmental health staff, including in government agencies

· Frontline local authority staff, including those working with vulnerable children and adults, with victims of domestic abuse, and with the homeless and rough sleepers

· Utilities, communication and financial services staff

For more information, visit: gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested