How Bolton is responding to rising COVID rates and what we can ALL do to help

Bolton Council and its partners have confirmed a phased response to rising COVID rates - but there are simple steps we can ALL take to bring the virus under control.

The recent substantial rise in Bolton’s infection rate is a stark reminder that COVID-19 has not gone away.

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 remain at Step 2 of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown: Do not meet indoors with anyone outside your household or support bubble
  • Continue to work from home if you can

If you live in Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever, additional measures are being 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 Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever who does not have Covid-19 symptoms is strongly urged to attend one of our mobile testing unites this week for a PCR test.

Mobile testing units can be found at:

  • 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:

  • Deane Road Temple (Shree Swaminarayan Mandir), 161 Deane Road (BL3 5AH)

The mobile testing units and Deane Road Temple will be open 7 days a week, 10am until 4pm. You do not need an appointment to attend.

Vaccine

If you live in Rumworth, Deane or Great Lever and are eligible, someone will be in touch soon to offer you the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.  

You will be eligible for a vaccine if you:

  • Are aged 38 and over
  • a carer
  • are shielding
  • have a long term health condition

Engaging with the community

Teams are going door-to-door in Rumworth, Deane and Great Lever speaking to residents about the virus and the importance of taking part in the vaccine and enhanced testing programmes.

Leaflets, 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.

Published: 13th May 2021