COVID-19 update
Get tested for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Testing people and then tracing the contacts of those infected is vital to stop the disease from spreading.
We have five testing centres across the Royal Borough of Greenwich for people with COVID-19 symptoms. Booking is essential for these testing centres via the UK Gov portal. To find out more and book visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/coronavirustestandtrace
If you cannot get to a testing centre you can order a home test kit via gov.uk/government/publications/testing-for-coronavirus-at-home
We also recently launched our Community Testing Programme to provide rapid COVID-19 tests for people without symptoms. To find out more and request a test via the Council’s booking system visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/coronavirustestandtrace
Join the NHS COVID-19 vaccine team
To help ensure that the NHS can deliver a large-scale vaccination programme without significantly impacting on other vital services, we are recruiting thousands of roles, including vaccinators, while also working with partners to build a bank of volunteers who can support vaccine services. Find out more about joining the NHS COVID-19 vaccine team.
Secure financial support if you test positive and have to self-isolate
If you are unable to claim sick pay from your employer and are a low-income household, you may be entitled to a one-off £500 payment to support you and your family. To find out more and apply visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/coronavirustestandtrace
Fake NHS text message
A fake NHS text is circulating telling people they are eligible to apply for the COVID-19 vaccine.
The link takes you to a convincing but fake NHS website that asks for your personal details and talks about charging for the vaccination.
This is a scam, and unfortunately we are seeing an increase in fraudsters looking to take advantage of people both online, over the phone and face-to-face.
Never provide your personal details. And don’t forget the COVID-19 vaccination is FREE via the NHS for people in priority groups. Residents will be contacted by their GP or health provider when it is your turn to get the vaccine.
If you or anyone else has been affected by this fraud or any other scam, please report it to Action Fraud – call 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk. You can also let our Trading Standards team know by emailing tradingstandards@royalgreenwich.gov.uk
Find out more about scams and rogue traders at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/info/200329/coronavirus/2213/businesses/2
Don’t miss out – get your flu vaccination today
Getting the flu vaccination is more important than ever this winter to help protect against the double danger of flu and COVID-19.
Across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, we care about protecting our residents, our employees and each other so we’re asking everyone to get your flu vaccination at your GP surgery, a local pharmacy, your workplace, school or midwifery service. It’s also free of charge for those most at risk.
Don’t forget – you can attend medical appointments in lockdown.
To find out more including the nearest place to get your flu vaccination visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/flu
NHS 111 first
The NHS is very busy with the rising cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) but they are still available to help in providing urgent care when we need it.
GPs are providing more appointments for patients with urgent health needs, including evenings and weekends. Contact your own practice and they will tell you how to arrange local, same-day appointments if you need urgent care. Pharmacies are also available to provide advice and support.
You can also contact NHS 111 by phone or online at 111.nhs.uk for other urgent health advice including if you have concerns about COVID-19 symptoms. They will be able to ensure that you receive the care that you need, including booking urgent GP or hospital appointments.
Please remember that 999 and A&E are for emergencies only.