COVID-19: book a free test
Salford has several COVID-19 testing centres across the city. The test centres are open seven days a week but you must book a free test either online or call 119. You cannot turn up at a testing site without an appointment.
How do I book a test appointment or order a home test kit?
To arrange a test you must book via GOV.UK and choose from the following options:
- At a walk-through test site
- At a drive-through test site at a drive
- Home testing
If you have problems using the online service, call 119 to book an appointment.
Book a free COVID-19 test
Who can be tested at the local testing centres?
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms can get a free test, including children whatever their age. If you can’t get to a test centre, you can order a home test kit. Do not go to a test centre if you’re very unwell or if you’re at high risk from COVID-19. Choose a home test instead.
Where are the local testing centres?
Our main local testing centres are located at:
- Salford Civic Centre, Chorley Road, Salford, M27 5DA
- John William Street Car Park, Eccles, M30 0NG
- Car park on Devonshire Street, Salford, M7 4RF
- Humphrey Booth House, University of Salford, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4PH
You must drive, walk or cycle to the site. Please do not use a taxi or public transport. If getting to a test centre is a problem, please order a home testing kit.
Please do not go to a test centre without booking an appointment first.
When are the test centres open?
Our testing centres are open every day with appointments generally available between 8am and 8pm every day.
The test centres will be open throughout the Christmas period including Christmas Day, Bank Holiday Monday (Monday 28 December) and New Year’s Day.
What to expect when you come to a test centre
Everyone should wear a face covering, except children under the age of three. You must also bring a confirmation email of your appointment (printed out or on your phone) and ID.
The Department of Health and Social Care has created a video to explain how test centres operate. It includes what to expect at the site, how to take the test, how you’ll get your results and more.
Watch ‘visiting a local testing site’ video
Free home testing kits
If you have difficult visiting a testing centre, you can order a free home testing kit.
You will receive a test kit for yourself and up to three other people you live with
It will be posted to your home and should arrive the following day once you have ordered it
Once you have completed the test it should be returned as soon as possible to receive your results
The step by step guide to ordering a free home testing kit can be found on the government website:
Get a free coronavirus test
Watch how to take a combined throat and nose swab for COVID-19
Help
Help is available via telephone should you have any difficulty completing the online form.
Call 119. Lines are open 7am to 11pm.
If you’re getting a test because you have symptoms, you and anyone you live with must self-isolate until you get your result.
This also applies to anyone in your support bubble (where someone who lives alone – or just with their children – can meet people from one other household).