Enhanced testing and a vaccine drive are among the measures that have been rolled out in the most affected areas.
But there are simple steps EVERY Bolton resident can take to keep themselves and others safe:
- Basic steps are our most powerful defence against the virus. Wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering, maintain social distance and let fresh air in
- Accept the vaccine when offered
- If you have symptoms, self-isolate immediately and book a COVID test via the national portal
- We are now at Step 3 of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown: Please remain cautious and maintain social distance
- Continue to work from home if you can
If you live in Halliwell, Central Bolton, Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever, additional measures have been introduced to control the virus in your community.
Our page of FAQs will help answer any questions you may have about enhanced PCR testing or the COVID-19 vaccine.
Enhanced testing
Anyone who is living, working or studying in Halliwell, Central Bolton, Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever who does not have Covid-19 symptoms is strongly urged to take part in the enhanced testing programme.
Enhanced testing is a process whereby everyone living, working or studying in a specific area, who does not already have symptoms, is asked to take a COVID-19 test.
FAQs: "What's the difference between a PCR and and LFD test?"
Many people with COVID do not have symptoms and may be spreading the virus without realising, enhanced testing helps find these people so they can self-isolate to protect others.
It also helps us better understand new variants of COVID that may be spreading in the community.
From Sunday, May 23 teams will be going door-to-door in Halliwell and Central Bolton handing out PCR kits and returning the same day to collect completed tests.
Tests can also be taken at one of our mobile testing units:
- Mere Hall, Merehall St (BL1 2QT)
- Halliwell UCAN, Hatfield Rd (BL1 3BU)
- Memory Lane Wedding Venue, Gilnow Lane (BL3 5EL)
- Heywood Park, 12 Heywood Gardens (BL3 6RB)
- Makkah Mosque, Grecian Crescent (BL3 6QU)
Home PCR test kits will also be available for collection and return at:
- Darley Court, Shepherd Cross St (BL1 3BS)
- Deane Road Temple (Shree Swaminarayan Mandir), 161 Deane Road (BL3 5AH)
Help to self-isolate
For more information on self-isolation, check out the 10 Ways To Do Your 10 Days checklist.
Vaccine
If you live in Halliwell, Central Bolton, Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever and are eligible, you should have the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.
Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group will share the latest information on how to access the vaccine in your area.
You will be eligible for a vaccine if you:
- Are aged 32 and over
- a carer
- are shielding
- have a long term health condition
Engaging with the community
Teams have gone door-to-door in Halliwell, Central Bolton, Rumworth, Deane and Great Lever delivering leaflets urging residents to take part in the vaccine and enhanced testing programmes as well as explaining the importance of self-isolation in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Translated materials and interpreters are being used to share vital messages with everyone in the community.
We are also working with community leaders and voluntary organisations to ensure we can engage as many residents as possible.