Column by the leader of South Gloucestershire Council, Toby Savage.

Following the Government’s decision to delay the further easing of Covid-19 restrictions until 19 July, I would like to encourage everyone over the age of 16 to take rapid Covid-19 tests twice a week. Regular testing helps stop the virus from spreading by identifying cases among people who do not have symptoms and could unknowingly be spreading it.

Our Director of Public Health, Sara Blackmore, advises that there are three key things we can all do to help reach the next stage of easing as soon as possible:

• Take up the vaccine when invited to do so, including everyone over the age of 18 who is now eligible to book their jab

• Take regular rapid Covid-19 tests and register your results, and;

• Effectively self-isolate if you test positive or receive a notification saying you have been in close contact with someone who has.

The vaccine roll-out is still going really well and everyone over the age of 18 is now being encouraged to get their jab. So far more than 185,000 people in South Glos have had their first dose, with more than 135,000 having been ‘double-vaccinated’.

But regular rapid (lateral flow) tests are just as important as we all continue to play our part to protect ourselves, our loved ones, our communities.

Unfortunately, the number of people taking regular rapid tests in our district has dropped considerably recently. If you have not been testing yourself because you are worried about the financial implications of having to self-isolate, please get in touch. We can offer support and advice.

Accessing rapid Covid-19 tests is now easier than ever. Our bright pink testing van visits communities across the district and testing kit collection is also available at 12 of our libraries, and many pharmacies. There is also the option of having kits delivered directly to your home through the Government website.

For those who prefer taking a test onsite, our community testing facility is at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre.

Full details of all the ways to access testing are available on our website.

Remember, too, Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air.