Staff at major Horsham store in pilot Government Covid scheme

And it means that they no longer have to self-isolate if they come into contact with someone who tests positive for Covid-19,

Instead, they can undergo a rapid Covid test.

The pilot scheme is being trialled at Horsham’s Waitrose store - and at 56 other Waitrose and John Lewis shops around the country.

It means that any staff contacted by NHS Test & Trace can opt to undergo a rapid in-store test instead of self isolating for 10 days.

If the test proves negative, staff can carry on working. The staff member is then tested daily for a minimum of seven days.

A Waitrose spokeswoman said: “All Partners (staff) showing any symptoms are instructed to stay at home in line with Government guidance.

“We’ve been working with the Department of Health & Social Care and NHS Test & Trace to roll out rapid lateral flow testing for our Partners and this is available in selected Waitrose and John Lewis shops.

“Instead of self isolating, our Partners have the option to be tested each day before they begin working which means they can resume their role if the test is negative.”

Among other Waitrose and John Lewis shops taking part in the scheme include those in Hove, Southampton, London, Surrey, the east Midlands, Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire, Devon and Dorset.