Posted on Wednesday 5th May 2021
People are being urged to combine a trip to the polling station with getting a Covid-19 test this week.
Staffordshire residents will head to the polls for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began and cast their votes in the County Council, and rescheduled Police and Crime Commissioner elections on Thursday 6 May.
Polling stations across the county will have safety measures in place to keep voters and staff safe, but health chiefs at the county council are encouraging voters to use the trip as an opportunity to get one of their recommended twice weekly coronavirus tests.
Director for Health and Care, Dr. Richard Harling, said:
“Similar to a visit to the shops or beer garden, a trip to the polling station could see an increase in contact between people who do not live together. Rapid testing is the best way to help break the chain of infection if cases occur in these scenarios.
“Our advice to everyone in Staffordshire is to get tested twice a week, even if you do not have symptoms and have had your Covid-19 vaccine. It’s quick and easy, so please plan ahead and check which venues are offering testing close to your home or polling station.
“Please also remember hands, face, space, fresh air, and follow any other safety measures in place to help ensure these elections are safe for all taking part.”
Staffordshire people can get rapid tests and also collect home testing kits at various community venues, pharmacies and mobile pop-ups. Visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/testing to check where testing is available.
Outdoor pop-up testing will be at Cannock Chase Leisure Centre and Lichfield City Football Club to replace the usual testing sites while the venues are being used as polling stations.
Anybody with symptoms should book a test via https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.