It's been a busy start to the month with PFS supporting the London Borough of Redbridge by facilitating surge testing on the doorstep, after two cases of the South African variant of Covid-19 were found in the area.
Our door-to-door community testing team is offering PCR home testing in the affected areas for anyone aged 11+ regardless of whether they have symptoms or not. Tests are being delivered by a member of our team wearing PPE and carrying ID to show that they are working on behalf of Redbridge Council.
If you're in the area, rest assured that there's no evidence that this variant is any more serious than the original COVID-19 virus or that the approved vaccines offer less protection. A previous case of the South African variant detected in Loxford in February 2021 saw 5,000 people tested in 10 days, with no further cases of the variant detected. But, of course, testing is key.
Gladys Xavier, Director of Public Health at Redbridge Council, said:
“I am urging everyone who lives or works in the areas offering enhanced COVID-19 testing to take a test, to help us identify if there are any further existing cases. By taking a test, you’ll be playing your part in helping to keep your community and loved ones safe. It is important to continue to follow the guidance that is in place – limit your number of contacts, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, keep your distance and cover your face – and, if you are eligible, to get vaccinated when you are invited to by the NHS. Regular testing for Covid-19 also continues to be important.”
We're delighted that the campaign is getting some great feedback, including this comment we received yesterday:
"Just wanted to say how brilliant the door to door COVID-19 home testing process was in Hainault today. A young man called Davian came to the house, explained everything clearly, the process was simple and tech easy to use to register the result - great stuff!"
Find out more about the surge testing programme in Redbridge here or read this BBC report.
More from Gather Campaigns
While this campaign is keeping us busy in East London, we're out and about in other areas too, facilitating home testing and also supporting many of the best loved charities in the UK as they re-connect with supporters after months in lockdown. We'll be sharing more updates in the coming weeks. But if you want to find out more about our work, please get in touch with us here.