Eastbourne key workers upset at lack of Covid testing facilities

Critical care staff and key workers in Eastbourne are among those struggling to get tested for Covid-19.

The government has admitted there is a shortage of testing kits available and with the nearby facility at the Amex Stadium now closed, people in Eastbourne are struggling to apply for home test kits or are being told to make their way to drive-thru centres which may be hundreds of miles away.

On Twitter one Eastbourne person said they had been advised to drive to Folkestone for a test – an hour and a half drive away and a 120 mile round trip.

Sophie Caitlin, a critical care nurse at Eastbourne DGH said she was unable to work as she was unable to get tests for two of her children who have to self isolate due to high temperatures.

Sophie said, “We need to self isolate until we know if they are clear or not. We tried on and off all day on the NHS Covid online site without success, and again today- no tests.

“I also called 119 and was on hold for 90 minutes to be told there are no drive by tests, no walk in tests and no home tests available to me and my children. “I have contacted my own hospital to see if I can somehow get a test with them as I am a member of staff but, although sympathetic, have been told that I must apply through the NHS website or 119.

“I am supposed to be working a long day in critical care but will have to cancel my shift leaving the unit short staffed in an already very strained workforce. This is absolutely appalling.”

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