Key workers and their families will be able to order tests for the coronavirus online from April 24, Matt Hancock has announced.
It launched at 8am this morning but by 8.30am only drive-through testing options were available, before those slots quickly filled up too.
The government has struggled to meet the 100,000 daily tests hoped for by the end of April, with only 1,000 tests on offer for key workers today.
Criticism has been levelled over the delay in upping the number of tests in the UK – as drive-through sites for NHS tests were pictured looking empty and some were found to be inaccurate.
Frustrated people trying to get hold of tests complained the process was complicated and they couldn’t find a category for their job role.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock claimed it was as easy as “booking a flight” but many got error messages as the website struggled to cope.
One person tweeted: “So frustrating, been trying to book my daughter Covid-19 test, as she key worker, its already closed. Crazyness not simple at all, so stressful.”
And another frustrated worker added: “I can’t book a test! I’m a key worker and I keep getting this message!!!!! @MattHancock why is this link not open? You said we could get tested from today!”
Mr Hancock announced last night testing would be expanded to millions of people so they can find out if they currently have Covid-19 – but only if they are showing symptoms.
Who qualifies as a key worker?
The government has published a list of essential workers which includes all NHS and social care staff from doctors, nurses, midwives, paramedics, social workers and carers to support staff and supply chain workers.
Teachers, firefighters, local and national government staff, supermarket workers, police and delivery drivers are just some of the other roles included on the list.
Some utilities, communication and financial services staff are also included. The full list is here.
