Lateral flow testing has become part of daily life for many of us, but from April these will no longer be available for free.
In just over two weeks, anyone who is not identified as eligible for free testing faces paying between £2.50 and £5.99 for a single swab kit. In recent days, people have struggled to order lateral flow tests online amid a scramble for free kits while they are still available.
The number of free tests available each day will be capped to "manage demand" as the government scales back free testing for people in England. Tests ordered online are only available every three days, where previously people could order a new pack every 24 hours.
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The public has been encouraged not to stockpile tests but the system is currently overwhelmed with people trying to order kits. A message on the government testing portal states: "Sorry, there are no home delivery slots left for rapid lateral flow tests right now."
It is worth trying again later or on another day, however if you would like a test sooner there are still some walk-in sites open. It is worth checking before you set off, as a centre you have previously used may now have closed.
In Liverpool, a testing centre for people without covid symptoms remains open. The site, at the Convention Centre at King's Dock, is open from 7am-7pm daily, and no booking is required.
You may need to get tested if you're due to have surgery or a procedure. The NHS website says the hospital will arrange this for you, and that you should contact your hospital department if you have any questions.
Who can get free tests after April 1?
Limited symptomatic testing will be available for a small number of at-risk groups, though the government is yet to provide more detail on this.
It suggested people aged 80 and over are likely to be in that group.
Free symptomatic testing will also remain available to NHS and social care staff, for example people who work in care homes.
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