No PCRs if you’ve no symptoms

Under new temporary guidance starting on 11 January, if you test positive using a LFT yet have no symptoms, you won’t need to take a follow-up PCR test.

But you must still self-isolate immediately and report your positive LFT result on the government’s LFT website. NHS Test and Trace will then get in touch with you to track your contacts.

You’ll be able to leave self-isolation seven days from the date of your positive test, after showing two negative LFT results. These must be taken 24 hours apart on days six and seven.

You must, however, get a PCR test if you have symptoms when you take your first LFT, or if you later develop them while isolating. You can order a PCR test to do at home or visit a local PCR site at the former Magnet Leisure Centre carpark in Maidenhead (open daily) or Windsor Coach Park in Alma Road (open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during January). You’re allowed to leave your home to visit these sites while isolating.