Latest guidance on testing for coronavirus

Advice and Information - 1 April 2022

Free testing for coronavirus (Covid-19) from the NHS has ended for most people in England.
Picture shows teenage girl swabbing the back of her throat as part of a lateral flow test

Last updated: 31 August 2022

To check the latest Government guidance please visit GOV.UK.

Most people in England are no longer advised to get tested regularly. 

Free testing services have closed, so if you still want to get tested and you're not eligible for a free NHS test, you must pay for a Covid-19 test yourself. 

You can buy a Covid-19 test from some pharmacies and retailers, in person or online. 

Do not call 119, as you will not be able to get a test this way. You cannot order tests from NHS 111 or 999. 

For the most up-to-date advice on Covid-19 please visit GOV.UK.

Who is eligible for free NHS Covid-19 testing?

Routine asymptomatic Covid-19 testing has been paused in hospitals, care homes and other settings. 

This includes domestic abuse refuges, homelessness settings, prisons, detention centres and immigration removal centres.

Year-round symptomatic testing will continue to be provided in these settings. 

Asymptomatic testing will remain in place for people being admitted hospices and for those going into care homes and for immunocompromised patients who are being admitted to hospital.

Guidance on Covid-19 testing in periods of low infection rates

How to get a Covid-19 treatment

Keep rapid lateral flow tests at home

If you are eligible for Covid-19 treatments, make sure you have some rapid lateral flow tests at home so you can test quickly if you get symptoms of Covid-19.

Rapid lateral flow tests are tests that show you the result on a device that comes with a test.

If you do not have tests at home or need more tests, you can order free Covid-19 rapid lateral flow test kits on GOV.UK.

If you cannot order tests online, you can call 119 free of charge.

Tell us about your experience of care 

NHS and social care staff are doing everything they can to keep us well during these challenging times, but there may be things that could be improved.

Your feedback can help services spot issues that are affecting care for you and your loved ones. 

Share your experience

Information about Coronavirus

Our Coronavirus information page has information on how to stay safe from Covid-19 and where to get help and support if you need it. 

Find out more 

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