From Dr Lucy Foley | Director of Student Services
University of Kent Public Health Liaison Lead

As you will recall, we have been working with the Director of Public Health at Medway Council to arrange for asymptomatic testing to be available for staff on the Medway campus as those working in universities are classified as essential workers.

We have now been informed that testing will start from this Saturday 5 December and that you can now book a test.

How to book

You must book a test in advance. This can only be booked online.

If you don’t book you will not be permitted to take a test.

Testing Centre

Testing is taking place at three centres across Medway, including the Deep End which you may find the most convenient, and is available from 09.00 – 19.00 seven days a week.

Limited parking is available on some sites. Please remember to drive and park considerately as they may be residential areas and please do not block any driveways while you attend your test.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms on the day of your test please do not attend. You should book a PCR test with the NHS online. You can cancel your appointment through the text/confirmation email sent to you. Please then follow our staff Self-isolate, test, inform procedure for staff.

What you need to bring

You must bring the following proof to your appointment:

• test booking confirmation (text or email)
• critical worker status (a letter from your employer or your ID card)
• face covering exemption letter (if exempt)

You will not be allowed to take the test without them.

The test

Please ensure you arrive on time. You should not arrive more than 15 minutes before your allotted time as you will not be permitted entry to the centre.

Please ensure you follow the instructions carefully at all times. You will be guided to a booth to complete the test.

You should wear a face covering at all times except when the test is taking place unless you are exempt.

The test should not take any longer than a few minutes and is similar to a symptomatic test.

Your test result

You should receive the result of your test by text and email within an hour of completing the test.

If you test negative you will need to retake the test in two weeks. You can book your second test using the online form again.

If your test is positive, you will need to self-isolate for 10 days and book a PCR test with the NHS online. Please then follow our staff Self-isolate, test, inform procedure for staff.

Thank you for helping to keep our communities safe.