Published Monday 21 June 2021 at 14:44
Blackburn with Darwen Council is urging residents to #TestAndGo before meeting up with friends and family from other households to enjoy games from the European Championships.
Euro 2020 is underway with the action coming thick and fast – including England’s ongoing attempt to win the trophy. The Council wants people to enjoy the football but to do so safely.
All residents without Covid symptoms are currently encouraged to ‘Test and Go’ by taking up the offer of free, regular, rapid coronavirus testing.
People are already being asked to get a rapid test before visiting places like pubs, shops, hairdressers and restaurants. This will help keep everyone safe.
Testing is available at the borough’s three rapid test sites – which includes Saturday opening at King George’s Hall – or testing kits can be ordered to use at home. More information on the available options is available here: www.blackburn.gov.uk/get-a-test under ‘how to get a test’.
The push on rapid testing comes alongside current work on PCR surge testing happening in parts of the borough.
Alongside the Test and Go call, the Council is also urging residents to exercise caution when making plans with people outside their household.
It’s always safer to meet outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. So when meeting up for games, if possible, set up a screen outside, attend an outdoor event or go to games being put on in a pub garden.
If that’s not possible ensure indoor spaces are kept well-ventilated, and everyone watching continues to follow the current basic guidance including social distancing and keeping hands sanitised.
Dominic Harrison, Director of Public Health, said:
This is a great time for football fans. We want everyone to enjoy themselves but to do so safely. Our guidance on Test and Go and advising caution when mixing is not about saying ‘don’t do it’, but about taking all the steps necessary to make sure you’re doing it safely. We are desperate to avoid any new local restrictions coming in.
So #TestAndGo and if you can watch outdoors, if not make sure where you are is well ventilated, that you’re wearing masks when you’re moving around in a pub, that you’re sanitising and following the basic guidance.
We have to learn to live with this virus and manage the variants and therefore it is about measures that support our residents. We hope everyone watching has a great month and that England win all their games but, most importantly, that everyone stays safe and well.