People on Arran and Cumbrae will now have easier access to a rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing kit.

Those without symptoms can access the kits through pick up points on each island.

On Arran, as of yesterday (May 25), those without symptoms (asymptomatic) can pick up a lateral flow device (LFD) test kit from the Ormidale Pavilion, Manse Road, Brodick, Monday to Thursday between 11am and 3.30pm.

On Cumbrae, from Friday (May 28), those without symptoms (asymptomatic) can pick up a lateral flow device (LFD) test kit from the Garrison House, Clifton Street, Millport, Friday and Saturday between 11am and 3.30pm. 

Alternatively, you can arrange to have a LFD test kit delivered to your home here.

These kits are only for people WITHOUT symptoms. Anyone on Arran or Cumbrae with COVID-19 symptoms, or anyone who has been identified as a close contact, should book a test here or by calling 0800 028 2816.

Lisa Davidson, Assistant Director of Public Health for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, explains: “Testing will help us to identify more cases of the virus and give us all a better chance of stopping it from spreading.

“It is important that you are tested regularly, particularly if you are a key worker and must attend work. Even if you have been vaccinated, it is still important that you get tested regularly. This is particularly important if you are visiting a loved one in hospital or a care home.”

Testing using lateral flow devices can give people their results in around 45 minutes. Any positive cases will then be confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.

Anyone who receives a positive LFD or PCR test result will be asked to self-isolate. Dedicated support is available to anyone who needs to self-isolate, including food packages and financial support. The support can be found on the North Ayrshire Council website.

Lisa Davidson adds: “A test only tells us if we are positive at the point in time that we are being tested. It does not mean that we can stop following all of the rules and guidelines which are in place to protect all of us.

“The FACTS guidance remains as important as ever. This will help to protect our families, communities and the NHS.”

· F – Face coverings. These should be used in shops and on public transport (buses, trains and taxis)

· A – Avoid crowded places.

· C – Clean your hands frequently, using water & soap whenever possible.

· T – Two metres – observe physical distancing.

· S – Self-isolate and book a test if you are suffering from COVID-19 symptoms.